Kananook Car Park opens - a win for commuters and the community
Published on 22 May 2025
Commuters across Frankston City and the Mornington Peninsula now have a safer and more convenient way to park and ride, with the opening of the Kananook Car Park—a significant infrastructure project delivered through a partnership between Frankston City Council and the Australian Government.
Located directly opposite Kananook Railway Station and adjacent to Frankston Stadium—which is set to undergo a major redevelopment of its own—the multi-level facility provides 325 free car spaces; 8 of which are specifically designated for disabled persons on the ground floor. A dedicated bicycle parking area, and enhanced access for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists have also been included.
The project was made possible thanks to the use of Council-owned land and $22 million in Australian Government funding.
During construction, the project is estimated to have generated 102 local jobs, delivered $8.9 million in wages, and contributed to a total economic output of $53.46 million.
Through Council’s strong bi-partisan relationships and robust approach to advocacy, funding was able to be secured in the 2021–22 Federal Budget towards the Kananook Car Park project.
This outcome highlights the critical role that Council-led advocacy plays in securing tangible benefits for the local community. By proactively stepping in, Council demonstrated leadership and a commitment to delivering long-term infrastructure outcomes—ensuring that federal funding remained in the region and was directed towards a viable, community-focused solution.
Frankston City Mayor Kris Bolam welcomed the car park opening and acknowledged the importance of Council’s advocacy and forward thinking in securing the investment and purchasing land ahead of time with a commuter car park in mind.
“This project is a direct result of Council’s strong and strategic advocacy and planning for infrastructure that meets the real needs of our growing community,” Cr Bolam said.
“The Kananook Car Park isn’t just about improving access to rail—it's about unlocking opportunity. From supporting active transport to reducing congestion, the benefits of this facility will be felt right across our community for years to come.”
Federal Member for Dunkley Jodie Belyea MP also celebrated the project’s delivery as a strong outcome for local commuters and families.
“This project is about making everyday life more affordable and convenient—whether people are heading to work, school, sport, or connecting with friends and family,” Ms Belyea said.
“With the Australian Government’s $22 million investment in the Kananook Car Park, we’re delivering real cost-of-living support by providing free, accessible and people-focused infrastructure that takes pressure off local households. I’m proud to see this facility officially open and ready to serve the growing Frankston City community and broader region.”
Key features of the car park include:
- Two levels of secure, undercover parking plus an open top deck 3rd level
- Real-time space availability indicators and signage
- Safe pedestrian access points and pathway upgrades
- Dedicated bicycle parking and landscaping
- New traffic signals and improved pedestrian safety
- Public art and architectural design referencing Kananook Creek
- CCTV for improved security
Community access and site suitability were front of mind when choosing the location and design, with the car park constructed on land already zoned for commercial infrastructure to minimise environmental impact.
In an effort to improve community safety at the new Kananook Car Park, Council worked with State Member for Frankston, Paul Edbrooke MP, who backed Council’s request for Protective Services Officers (PSOs) to include the facility in their regular patrols.
“I was proud to support Council’s push to ensure the new car park at Kananook is a safe and welcoming space. While the land may be Council-owned, it clearly serves public transport users, and it’s only right that PSOs include it in their patrols. I thank Minister Carbines for his support in delivering an outcome that prioritises community safety.”
The car park is visually integrated with the local environment through an exterior design that reflects the gentle curves of Kananook Creek, and also ‘Meander,’ a stainless steel sculpture symbolising the flow and beauty of the local waterway.
Outside peak commute times, the car park will support access to adjacent recreational and sporting facilities, further enhancing the area’s appeal to visitors and residents.
The new car park complements the neighbouring major $60 million redevelopment of the Frankston Stadium, which will see a 10-court facility, including a 1,000 spectator show court, and Frankston’s first purpose-built community gymnastics hall. Building on the stadium starts mid 2025, with completion expected in two years, taking the overall investment in the precinct to $85 million.
These two projects are the latest examples of Frankston City Council delivering on its vision to be a well-connected, thriving, and liveable city.
