$50 million to play, splash and roam

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the Government’s economic recovery package would result in more places to play, splash and roam.

“We’re setting aside $50 million for new places to swim or paddle, improved play spaces, and more trails that connect communities to their parklands,” Mr Perrottet said.

“With Greater Sydney offering some of the most beautiful river, lake, and bushland environments, this package will mean everyone can discover more of the hidden gems in their own backyard.

“Lockdown showed us that we need more public spaces that are better connected with more recreation facilities, and that’s exactly what this funding will help achieve.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the $50 million investment would go towards adventure, nature, and water play opportunities.

“While lockdown is over, it highlighted that people living closer to the coastline have far more natural swimming spots than those living in our west,” Mr Stokes said.

“This program will create new opportunities to dive into places like our stunning harbour, Parramatta or Nepean Rivers, take a hike in the bush, or ride along a new nature trail.”

“Children will have more opportunities to play and connect with nature and there’ll be funding to create more community garden and greenway projects for everyone to enjoy.”

The Government’s $50 million Open Space program includes:

• Places to Swim ($16.7 million): New swimming and kayaking locations across Greater Sydney’s lakes, rivers, and harbour
• Places to Play ($16.7 million): Additional public open spaces for play and adventure, for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds across NSW
• Places to Roam ($16.7 million): New and upgraded regional trails, better active transport corridors, and connected bushland, parks, and gardens across Greater Sydney.

Councils and state government agencies will be able to nominate projects and apply for grants over the coming months.

Find out more about the Open Space program