FAQs
- The types of playspaces we provide (e.g. local playgrounds, district-level parks)
- How accessible and inclusive they are and what supporting amenities are required to support users
- How we plan for future growth and changing community needs and aspirations
- What standards we should aim for in terms of safety, design and maintenance (e.g. fencing, surface materials)
- Respond to population growth and urban development
- Reflect current trends in play, accessibility and inclusion
- Identify gaps in service and help us prioritise investment and upgrades
- Ensure playspaces are located where they’re needed most
- Traditional playgrounds with equipment such as swings and slides
- Opportunities for providing different types of play for all ages and abilities
- Outdoor fitness equipment spaces
- Improved amenity for parents and carers
What is the 'Playspace Strategy'?
The Playspace Strategy is a long-term plan being developed by Wollongong City Council to guide how we design, upgrade and manage public playspaces across our city. It will help us make informed decisions about where playspaces are needed, what they should look like, and how they can better serve our community.
This strategy will cover things like:
It’s about making sure playspaces are fun, safe, and welcoming for everyone — now and into the future.
Why is Council developing a new Playspace Strategy?
Wollongong is growing and so are the expectations of our community. With over 149 play spaces already in place and more families moving into areas like West Dapto, we need a clear plan to make sure our playspaces keep up with demand and reflect what people actually want.
The current approach to playspace planning has served us well, but it’s time for a refresh. The new strategy will:
By planning ahead, we can create a network of playspaces that support healthy, active and connected communities.
What kind of play spaces are included in the strategy?
The Playspace Strategy focuses on public playspaces managed by Wollongong City Council typically provided in a park setting across Wollongong.
It will cover:
It does not include facilities like skate parks, BMX tracks, dog parks or sports courts — those will be addressed in a separate Sport & Recreation Strategy at a later date. The strategy also does not address playgrounds provided in a private context (e.g. childcare centres, shopping centres etc).
When will the strategy be finalised?
The draft strategy will be released for public feedback in early 2026. After that, it will be refined and presented to Council for adoption.
Will all the ideas in the strategy be built straight away?
Not necessarily. The strategy is a long-term plan that will outline future planning and priorities for investment, but programming of individual projects will depend on Council’s broader planning processes.
A 20 year strategy seems like a long time. Why is Council planning for the next 20 years?
Play equipment has a typical lifespan of 10 to 20 years. This means that every playground will be replaced at least once during the next 20 years.
A long-term strategy helps plan for replacement, upgrades and maintenance for all playgrounds in a cost-effective and sustainable way.