Unfair Hospital Parking Fees Burdening St George Hospital Patients and Families

Patients, families, and healthcare workers are facing significant financial strain due to high parking fees at St George Hospital, with many describing the fees as a “sick tax” and “cash cow.”

Recent media reports have highlighted the escalating costs of hospital parking across New South Wales, with St George Hospital ranking among the most expensive.

Reports reveal that St George Hospital charges up to $38 per day for parking, with hourly rates reaching $11.20, making it one of the most expensive hospitals for parking in the state. (Daily Telegraph)

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure, said that the hospital fees were “disproportionate when compared to similar hospitals across the state,” calling on the NSW Government to address this as a matter of urgency.

“These parking fees are a tax on the sick. Families are already struggling with the high cost of living and it is unacceptable that the NSW Government is allowing these excessive charges to continue,” Mr Coure said.

“I have written to the Health Minister and the Premier, calling for a full review and investigation into why families in the St George are paying more.”

Financial reports indicate that revenue from hospital parking fees has surged from $30.2 million to $51.7 million over the past two years, with the South Eastern Sydney Health District, which includes St George Hospital, seeing an increase from $3 million to $9.3 million.

Shadow Minister for Health, Kellie Sloane MP, joined with Mr Coure to condemn the Labor Government’s inaction.

“Hospital parking should be affordable and accessible, not an added financial stress for patients and families already facing difficult times. The NSW Government must take immediate action to provide relief,” Ms Sloane said.

“We know that families and individuals rely on public hospitals for lifesaving care, and it is completely unacceptable that they are being hit with sky-high parking fees just to access treatment.”

Private operators, including Point Parking and Metro Parking, are contracted to manage parking facilities across the hospital site. However, the NSW Government is still responsible for setting parking fees and collecting revenue.

“This is yet another example of the NSW Labor Government putting money before people, especially when times are already so tough. They are completely out of touch with the people of New South Wales,” Mr Coure said.