Equitable Technologies for Smarter Urbanism: Enhancing Priority Car Parking at Western Sydney University

Relocating university campuses to Central Business Districts (CBDs) changes the way people travel to and from campus. While CBDs are often considered accessible due to the increased availability of public transport and non-motorised transit options (e.g. walking, cycling), urban locations can also lead to social exclusion and transport disadvantage for some. For example, people with disabilities and caring commitments who are dependent on private car transport to facilitate their mobility, can find it more difficult to access urban campuses when accessible parking and transport options are not readily available. In 2018, Western Sydney University opened its second city-based campus in the City of Liverpool, located in Southwest Sydney, New South Wales. With limited on-site car parking in the campuses' basement, plans were implemented to provide staff and students with disabilities and caring commitments with priority parking. DIVVY Parking Pty Ltd was commissioned to deliver a car parking service using their app.