A guide to parking in Footscray: free & cheap options near VU

Most free parking around Footscray is time-limited to 1P-4P (limited from one to four hours). You don’t pay, but you can’t stay all day. The trick is matching the time limit to your class, then having a backup for longer days. 

Before you leave your car, always check: 

• the days (weekday rules are often different to weekends) 
• the times (restrictions usually apply only during certain hours) 
• whether it’s ticketed (you need to pay) or just time-limited 
• permit-only conditions (especially in residential streets) 

Set reminders on your phone so you don’t accidentally park longer than the time limit and risk getting a ticket. 

For Footscray Park Campus, you can start by exploring nearby residential streets for free parking. Keep in mind, these spots fill up fast. The closest paid spot to check out is along Ballarat Road adjacent to Footscray Park. But with both the campus and Footscray Hospital right nearby, it gets competitive at peak times. 

Arrive a bit earlier to try secure a nearby free parking and be prepared to walk a bit further if the closest streets are full. 

There are also two large all-day paid car parks available at Footscray Park campus.  

• Car Park A: The first is off Maribyrnong Boulevard via Farnsworth Avenue – this is closest to campus so fills up quickly during teaching blocks when everyone’s around. All day parking here costs $6.47.
• Car Park B: You’re more likely to get a spot at the car park across the river (off Fisher Parade). From there it’s a 5-10 minute walk to campus across the bridge. You can also hop on the shuttle between car park B and campus – this runs weekdays 6:30-10:30am and 3:30-7:30pm. One upside is that parking is slightly cheaper compared to car park A – costing $4 for an all day stay.

Parking at Footscray Hospital is also available but rates are much higher – ranging from $8.50 for 30 minutes to an hour and over $20 for all day parking (longer than 3 hours).

Nicholson Campus sits close to central Footscray, so parking turns over fast and restrictions are common. 

Plan A: time-limited free parking 

Look for time-limited free street parking around Nicholson Street, Irving Street, Paisley Street and Albert Street. These areas often have short free windows, but it changes bay-to-bay, so pay close attention to what the signs say. 

Plan B: longer stays (4-5 hours) 

Aim for longer time-limit areas or nearby car parks that allow a longer stay (where available). 

Plan C: all day  

When you need to be on campus longer than four hours, it’s usually best to skip the hunt and choose an all day paid parking option. 

If you’re not sure where to start, paid car parks in central Footscray are a reliable option. You can usually choose an hourly rate or an all-day rate depending on your timetable. 

In Footscray, paid parking is common in higher-demand areas and some car parks. Prices depend on the exact location and day, so check: 

• the signs on the street or in the car park, and 
• the council parking pages or the car park operator’s website. 

You’ll usually see: 

• hourly paid parking (good for 2-3 hours) 
• all-day rates (best for longer days on campus) 
• some car parks that offer a short free period, then paid rates after that. 

Around Footscray, you’ll often see parking you can pay for using EasyPark. Paying through the app is handy because you can start a session, extend it and avoid rushing back to your car. 

How it usually works: 

• download EasyPark and add your rego and payment method 
• enter the area code shown on the sign or tap the map in the app 
• choose your time and start your session 
• extend if needed, then stop it when you leave. 

The app will remind you if your parking is about to run out and you need to top it up. 

If street parking is full or you don’t want the stress, private car parks can be another good option. They usually have clear rules and published pricing. 

Look for: 

• car parks near Footscray Station and central Footscray for Nicholson campus 
• nearby public or private parking options along major streets for Footscray Park 

Check the operator’s website for up-to-date rates and conditions. 

Before you walk away, do a quick scan: 

• what days does this apply? 
• what time does it start and end? 
• is it ticketed? 
• are there permit-only conditions? 

Parking is just one part of your new routine puzzle. If you’re unsure about anything, VU has support to help you settle in fast. 

You can get help with: 

• study skills like writing, referencing, time management and exam prep 
• wellbeing support if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed 
• accessibility and disability support to make study work for you 
• career support when you’re ready to find casual work, build your resume or plan your next step 

Reach out early. A quick chat can save you hours of stress later and help you stay on track from week one. 

Advice & support