The government of Australian Capital Territory (ACT) in a collaboration with parking technology firm Smart Parking Limited has rolled out SmartPark, a real-time bay sensor parking solution alongside the new ParkCBR app, which makes finding and paying for parking easier in the capital.

Manuka district will run a 12-month trial of Smart Parking's RFID-equipped SmartEye sensors, which use infrared technology to detect when a vehicle has occupied a parking space.

The real-time data will then be used to populate the ParkCBR parking availability app and five new dynamic LED on-street signs with changes to parking space occupancy on a minute-by-minute basis.

"This smart city initiative will actively support the ACT Governments goal of using technology to develop urban renewal and a solid digital infrastructure."

At Furneaux multistorey car park, drivers will be greeted with SmartGuide, which is an overhead guidance system that uses green and red lighting to guide drivers to available parking areas.

ParkCBR can be downloaded and accessed through smartphone devices to get a current picture of parking spaces nearby.

Once drivers select a space, they will be given the option for GPS navigation and payment, which in turn eliminates the need for paper tickets or top-up trips to the metre.

Smart Parking group chief executive officer Paul Gillespie said that SmartPark technology will now play a key role in helping to transform the parking experience in the capital.

"Complementing a number of innovative digital projects in the territory, SmartPark will now make it easier for drivers in Manuka to find a parking space, leading to reduced congestion and less vehicle emissions expanding on the ACT Government's commitment to ensuring the ACT is a livable city now and into the future," Gillespie added.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said: "This smart city initiative will actively support the ACT Governments goal of using technology to develop urban renewal and a solid digital infrastructure.

"It will support residents, local businesses and inter-state visitors to move in and out of Manuka more easily. This investment is about tailoring solutions to Canberra and developing technology which addresses the ACT community."