Open space is the foundation of liveable communities. Public open space is infrastructure that is essential for communities and creating great places to live. It encompasses parks, natural areas and linkages, waterways and foreshores, informal parklands, sports grounds and courts, playspaces, historical sites, and recreation trails for walking and cycling. It is found in every part of NSW — from remote regional towns to new greenfield suburbs, and long-established urban centres. Well-connected open space plays a crucial ecological, economic, social and cultural role in our lives.
The department is delivering a range of open space projects across NSW, including new and improved parks across Greater Sydney through the Parks for People program, places to swim and get adventurous in nature supported by the Open Spaces Program, as well as over 140 inclusive playspaces influenced by the Everyone Can Play program, delivered in partnership with councils.
People with access to public open space are healthier and happier than those without. For many people living without access to a backyard, the open spaces in our communities are vital to maintain physical and mental health.
Public Open Space Strategy for NSW
The Public Open Space Strategy for NSW (PDF, 14.3 MB) is a major step to deliver more and better public open space that the community can access, use, enjoy and belong to. It sets out a collaborative, coordinated and evidence-based approach for government agencies to plan, invest and deliver public open space – resulting in more effective and efficient outcomes.
Find out more by contacting our team at [email protected]