Should we pay higher parking fees just because of the convenience of been able to park closer to the hospital? Hospital parking can not be seen as convenient, It's not about convenience, it's about catering to the needs of the service. Our city hospitals are built in locations that are surrounded by streets that have regulated street parking. For example RBWH is a very busy area on the edge of the city, patients can park for 2hrs for free on Butterfield St, Garrick St and Bramston Tce (and surrounding side streets). 2hrs for many is not long enough when attending an appointment, if running late the patient risks missing their appointment if they were to leave to move their car to avoid a fine, not to mention it can take approx 20 mins just to get back to your car. These hilly streets are quite steep, so for those who are frail, unwell or have physical limitations these 2hr zones are not suitable. You also can spend upto 30 mins if not more driving the streets to find a free space. (Perhaps if these zones were 3hr or 4hr zones this would benefit many) Herston Rd & O'Connell St have 4hr metered parking, however for those having treatment, day surgery (a carer to attend to take them home), attending multiple appointments, 4 hrs may not be enough time and are at risk of getting a fine. Perhaps if these zones were 6 -8hr zones this would benefit many) Located on O'Connell St you will find the RNA showgrounds parking, avail Mon-Fri for around $13 per day, it is approx 9 min walk and physically a much easier walk. (You can enquire about buying 5 vouchers and getting 1 voucher free) see link - http://www.brisbaneshowgrounds.com.au/information/parking/ When planning a hospital, street access parking needs to be considered and co-ordinated alongside council to ensure those who are accessing the hospital have suitable street parking available to them, including wheelchair/pram/walker/vision impaired suitable. If the surrounding streets are not necessarily suitable (as is the case with Mater, LCCH RBWH, PA) then hospital parking should be made available to patients & carers at a fairer price not a dearer price.