The good news is that it’s perfectly legal to park your car overnight at any designated parking area. Many areas around Australia allow for public parking on the street however Queensland is the only exception. In Queensland sleeping in your vehicle is not allowed in typical public parking areas. That said, it doesn't mean you're out of options—just that you’ll need to be a bit more creative. More on that below.
Observe the local council By-laws
Rules around overnight parking can vary widely between councils, even within the same state.
Before settling in for the night, it’s smart to:
Visit the local council’s website
Search for terms like "overnight parking”
Look for designated areas or prohibited zones
Check Reddit & YouTube Testimonials
Reddit forums generally have helpful insight within which areas are ideal for staying overnight. YouTubers living the car life also share hidden gems that don’t show up in official apps - some such videos are found on the YouTube car life community page.
Rent a Parking Spot (Long-Term Stability)
If you’re looking to stay in a area that has strict parking laws, platforms like Parkhound allows you rent a private parking space weekly or monthly. A spot in Crawley, WA—one of Perth’s most expensive suburbs—is only $39 a week. That’s cheaper than a single night in most caravan parks and often have access to electricity and water. You can even try posting a gumtree advert to provide additional parking options.
Apps That Help You Find Spots
WikiCamps
CamperMate
iOverlander
Facebook Groups
There are thousands of locals and fellow travellers sharing real-time tips on where to stay—for free or on the cheap.
Join groups like:
👉 Free Camping Australia (Facebook)
These communities often post current updates on rangers, new parking zones, and even driveway sharing offers in areas where overnight parking is tough (like Queensland).
Free Campsites & National Parks
Many national parks and state reserves across Australia allow overnight stays for a small fee—or even free. They often have basic facilities like toilets and water.
🛠️ Tip: Check whether you need a booking or permit in advance (especially in popular tourist areas).
