- Consultation commences as part of the design process for a new community space at Hillarys Boat Harbour
- Consultation will focus on engaging with young people
- Community space part of the Cook Labor Government’s $14.1 million election commitment to activate and upgrade Hillarys Boat Harbour
Consultation has commenced to determine the key design features of the new Youth and Family Plaza at the Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Located on the site of the former Great Escape water park site, the new Youth and Family Plaza will see the underutilised central location repurposed, allowing for long-term planning as the harbour grows.
The space will be transformed to provide an engaging and stimulating facility for young people to spend time, with improved fitness and recreational facilities. Additionally, family-friendly facilities will be added, with a purpose-built changing pavilion and other complementary attractions adjoining the site.
As part of consultation, the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) will visit schools in the area seeking input from 12- to 18-year-olds on the type of activities they would like included through a series of workshops and online surveys.
They will also be consulting the parents of young children and grandparents, also key stakeholders including WA Police. The design will also implement Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles to ensure safety and inclusivity remain key considerations.
The results of the initial engagement will see the development of a draft design next year for further review and input ahead of a tender process in 2027 for the detailed design and construction of the facility.
This activation is part of the Cook Labor Government’s $14.1 million election commitment to activate and upgrade the harbour, including the refurbishment of the inner harbour toilets and improvement to the northern breakwater fishing platform.
For more information about the improvements and to provide feedback on the plaza design visit DTMI’s website . Comments are welcome by 30 November 2026.
As stated by Minister Assisting the Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister John Carey:
“The Cook Labor Government wants to make sure that Hillarys Boat Harbour remains a premier destination for young people and their families.
“This consultation is about hearing firsthand from young people about what could be included in the new Youth and Family Plaza on the site of the old Great Escape site.”
As stated by Hillarys MLA Caitlin Collins:
“This is a major milestone in the delivery of our election commitment to revitalise the old Great Escape site.
“The refurbishment of the toilets is now complete and it is exciting to see the upgrade of the fishing platform in its final stages.
“Thank you to the many residents who have already shared their ideas for the Youth and Family Plaza. Consultation closes on 30 November and I encourage all 12- to 18-year-olds in our community to have their say on a space designed specifically for them.”
