The Metropolitan Greenspace Program helps create liveable places, great neighbourhoods and build sustainable communities, delivering a network of high-quality green space that connects town centres, public transport hubs, and major residential areas.
The program commits grant funding to local councils in Greater Sydney and the Central Coast for projects that improve and increase access to regionally significant open space.
It's the longest running open space grants program, having started in 1983. Since 1990 over $56 million has been provided to more than 680 projects
Grants are offered on a dollar-for-dollar basis for capital and planning works. Eligible capital works projects include shared pedestrian and cycle pathways, new or improved parks and open spaces, improved signage and accessibility. Eligible planning projects include open-space plans, plans of management and master plans that will lead to capital works.
To be eligible, applications must demonstrate both match funding and regional status of open space.
Funding for the program comes from the Sydney Region Development Fund, which is administered by the Office of Strategic Lands.
2023–24 grants
Applications for funding for the Metropolitan Greenspace Program were open to all councils across Greater Sydney and the Central Coast from 12 February 2024 until 29 April 2024.
$3 million in funding has now been awarded to 8 councils for 9 projects to enhance access to regionally significant public open space and contribute to the Green Grid.
The 9 projects will help provide 31,634 homes with access to open space within a 10-minute (800 m) walk.
For more information about the program:
2023–24 successful projects
| Council | Project name | MGP recommended funding |
|---|---|---|
| Parramatta City Council | Cultural Heritage Plan for the Parramatta River | $140,000 |
| Cumberland City Council | Mimosa Street Parklet | $313,920 |
| Cumberland City Council | Seventh Street Parklet | $329,713 |
| Inner West Council | Gumbramorra Swamp Wetlands | $639,000 |
| Campbelltown City Council | Heart of Scenic Hills Varroville Reserve | $352,500 |
| Camden Council | Foothills Bike Park | $518,650 |
| Georges River Council | Peakhurst Park Adventure Play Space | $110,000 |
| Blacktown City Council | Church Street Cycleway | $446,217 |
| Hornsby Shire Council | North Epping Fitness Trail | $150,000 |
| Total | $3,000,000 | |
2022–23 grants
In December 2022, 11 councils were awarded up to $2.82 million for 11 projects. The funding will support 29,098 homes to have access to open space within a 10 minute (800 m) walk.
Applications were assessed by an independent panel of experts. They are assessed against the program’s key objectives, including improving regionally significant open spaces, promoting partnerships between state and local governments, and committing to the design and future management of open space.
Previous grant projects
For more information, email [email protected]