Question 1

What does a car park attendant do?

Accepted Answer

A car park attendant is responsible for directing vehicles, processing payments, monitoring security, assisting customers and maintaining the car park facility. They ensure smooth traffic flow, collect parking fees, enforce parking regulations and provide excellent customer service to visitors and regular users.

Question 2

What award covers car park attendants in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Car park attendants may be covered by the Miscellaneous Award 2020 (MA000104) or the Car Parking Award 2020 (MA000095), depending on the employer and the nature of the business. The Car Parking Award applies specifically to the car parking industry, while other parking operations may fall under the Miscellaneous Award. Always verify which award applies to your specific operation. Use HR software to manage employee records and onboarding.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a car park attendant?

Accepted Answer

Under the applicable award, car park attendants are typically classified at Level 1 or Level 2 based on their duties and experience. Attendants with additional responsibilities such as cash reconciliation, shift leadership or security monitoring may be classified at higher levels. Check the relevant award for current classification criteria.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a car park attendant job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like "Award rates apply" or "Above award rates for experienced attendants." Always check the current award rates for accurate guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do car park attendants need?

Accepted Answer

Car park attendants typically need a valid driver's licence to move vehicles when required. While not always mandatory, a first aid certificate, security licence (if performing security duties) and cash handling experience are valuable. Most training is provided on the job, covering payment systems, parking equipment and customer service protocols.

Question 6

Do car park attendants need security training?

Accepted Answer

If the role involves security monitoring, surveillance or incident response beyond basic customer service, attendants may need a security licence under state legislation. Many car parks employ attendants primarily for customer service and payment processing, which generally does not require a security licence. Clarify the security expectations in your job description.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a car park attendant?

Accepted Answer

Look for candidates with customer service experience, cash handling skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Experience in retail, hospitality or security roles often translates well. Familiarity with CCTV systems, payment terminals and conflict resolution techniques is advantageous for busy car parks.

Question 8

Can I hire trainee car park attendants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many car park attendants start with minimal experience and learn on the job. Provide thorough training on your payment systems, parking equipment, emergency procedures and customer service standards. Consider pairing new attendants with experienced staff during their initial shifts.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent car park attendants?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your operational pattern. Permanent attendants provide consistency and familiarity with regular customers, while casuals offer flexibility for peak periods, events or overnight shifts. Many car parks use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to car park attendants?

Accepted Answer

Under most applicable awards, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (150%), Sundays (200%), public holidays (250%), and shift penalties for evening and night shifts. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for car park attendants?

Accepted Answer

Under most applicable awards, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 2-3 hours per shift. Part-time employees have guaranteed minimum hours as specified in their contract. Check the specific award provisions for your operation type.

Question 12

What should I include in a car park attendant employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type, hourly rate, applicable award, main duties, work location, shift patterns (including weekend and night work expectations), uniform requirements and any physical or security requirements. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to car park attendants?

Accepted Answer

Under most applicable awards, rosters should be provided at least 7 days in advance where practicable. Changes require reasonable notice unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of upcoming shifts.

Question 14

Can I require car park attendants to work night shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but night shift requirements should be clearly communicated in the job description and employment contract. Many car parks operate 24/7 or have extended hours for airports, hospitals and entertainment venues. Under applicable awards, employees are entitled to shift penalties for night work. Be clear about shift expectations during hiring.

Question 15

What breaks are car park attendants entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under most applicable awards, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. In unstaffed car parks or single-attendant shifts, you may need to arrange relief coverage for breaks. Use break planning tools to manage coverage.

Question 16

How do I manage car park attendant coverage for events?

Accepted Answer

For major events, concerts or sporting fixtures, you may need additional attendants to manage peak entry and exit periods. Plan rosters around event schedules, coordinate with event organisers and brief staff on expected volumes and traffic management procedures. Use rostering software to manage variable staffing levels efficiently.

Car park attendant job description