$4 million in funding to ensure everyone can play

Four million dollars in funding is available for councils to create inclusive playgrounds for their local communities thanks to the NSW Government.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the funding, which councils match dollar for dollar, comes from the Government’s Everyone Can Play program.

“This government-led initiative is the first award-winning program in Australia dedicated to creating inclusive playgrounds where everyone can play, no matter their age or ability,” Mr Stokes said.

“There are more than 1.3 million people living with a disability in NSW and with an ageing population that is increasingly involved in the daily care of their grandchildren, and it’s important that we create spaces where everyone can play and relax.

“That’s why we’re helping local government to create more safe, accessible and well-designed places for friends and families to play, to exercise and to connect with each other.

“The program is proving to be incredibly popular with mums and dads, grandparents and carers, councils and the community, and most importantly, the kids.”

Wagga Wagga resident Leila Bright and mother of five-year-old Mia and three-year-old Andie said inclusive playspaces allow her eldest daughter a chance to be a kid.

“Other playgrounds are difficult for Mia to get around in with her prosthetic leg but inclusive playspaces like Livvi’s Place mean Mia can make new friends, improve her motor skills and build her confidence,” Ms Bright said.

“With the right design, it’s a place she can be on the same level as all of the other kids.”

This is program is helping the NSW Government deliver on its committment to ensure everyone lives near high quality open spaces.

Councils have until Wednesday, 11 December 2019 to apply for funding.