The penalty set by the government for parking without a permit in a disabled parking space has increased from this month to $519, plus a demerit point.

Minister for Roads and Freight Duncan Gay didn't hold back.

"I have made it very clear I'm outraged by able-bodied people who steal disabled car parks just to make their life easier," Mr Gay said.

"These people selfishly deny vulnerable members of our community close access to buildings and sufficient room to get in and out of their vehicles - they are low lifes, simple."

Lake Macquarie City Council's acting rangers manager Derek Poulton said council rangers get an increased number of complaints about unauthorised vehicles in disabled parking spaces over Christmas due to the increase in demand for parking spaces.

"Without these dedicated spaces, [people with a disability] are forced to park further away, which makes it difficult or even impossible for them to do their Christmas shopping," Mr Poulton said.