Pay by Plate parking meters

Following a successful trial in Cairns North and Cairns CBD, Council has decided to continue the roll-out of Pay By Plate meters to all paid parking areas, starting in May 2026.

The changes are necessary for compliance and will replace existing machines as parts are no longer able to be replaced.

This is a ticketless parking option so no need to return to your vehicle to place a parking ticket on your dashboard.

'Pay by plate' is quick and simple:

• Park
• Enter your vehicle's registration number plate details at the parking machine
• Pay for your parking period with coins or credit card
• Go about your day, no tickets are required.

How to use 'pay by plate'

Step 1:  press any key to begin

Step 2: use the keypad to enter your vehicle's registration number plate details here

Step 3: select payment type

Step 4:  card payment

Enter parking period using the + and - signs. Select OK when ready.

Tap credit card and follow on-screen prompts

Step 4: coin payment

Place coins in the coin slot. The paid parking period and price will update on the screen.
Select OK when ready.

Step 5: You're finished!

Made a mistake?
Select the X at any time to got to the previous screen