After sustained pressure from the Guild and more than 2,400 student signatures, Curtin University has confirmed that parking will now be free during both exam weeks each semester.
This is a real win for students.
At a time when students are being squeezed by rising rent, groceries, fuel and transport costs, parking should not be another barrier to getting to mandatory exams, study spaces or research work. For many students, especially those travelling long distances, balancing work or caring responsibilities, or studying late into the evening, driving to campus is not optional.
This change means students parking in yellow bays could save up to $68 this exam period alone. That is money staying in students’ pockets when they need it most, and one less thing to stress about during exams.
The Guild launched its parking and transport petition after hearing overwhelming frustration from students about worsening conditions on campus. Students have told us this is the toughest year for parking and transport they have experienced at Curtin.
This announcement shows that when students organise and speak up together, pressure works.
But there is still much more that needs to change.
Curtin continues to face major parking shortages following the closure and loss of hundreds of bays across campus, while many students are still being hit with expensive infringements during a cost-of-living crisis. Public transport access also remains inadequate for many students, particularly those travelling from outer suburbs or undertaking placements.
The Guild is continuing to fight for:
- More affordable parking options
- Additional parking capacity on campus
- Better bus connections and transport access
- A fairer infringement system
- Expanded practical support for students during the cost-of-living crisis
This is an important step forward, but it cannot be the end of the conversation.
If you want to help keep the pressure on Curtin to back its students, sign the petition and join the campaign.