As more homes, jobs and infrastructure is delivered it is also important that people living in growing communities have access to quality public spaces.
Round 1 is now open, making up to $36 million available to councils across Greater Sydney, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, Central Coast, Lower Hunter and Greater Newcastle, and the top 10 highest-performing regional LGAs for housing construction approvals.
Funding for Round 1 is split into two pools which reflects the approximate share of housing growth between the two groups:
- $32.4 million in funding for 43 LGAs across Greater Sydney, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, Central Coast, Lower Hunter and Greater Newcastle
- $3.6 million in funding for 10 LGAs in regional NSW based on the highest dwelling construction approvals during the National Housing Accord Period.
Councils can apply for up to two grants each, ranging from $150,000 to $2 million and must also fully match the funding received. The remaining $4 million will be allocated under Round 2.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “Great public spaces are at the heart of our communities, and the Better Open Spaces Program will help to keep communities active, connected and thriving.
“We’re matching housing growth with investment in quality open spaces from parks to town squares and swimming spots and more.”
Importantly the highest housing growth areas will be prioritised for funding with projects set to be ranked based on the number of new home approvals in each Local Government Area during the National Housing Accord period. Grants will fund construction-ready projects across three categories, including:
· Parks and sports fields Upgrading facilities such as play spaces, tracks for walking/cycling/skating, fitness areas, off-leash dog areas, multi-purpose courts, picnic shelters, and BBQ areas
· Swim sites Improving open spaces located near waterways, beaches, foreshores and riverfronts
· Town squares and civic plazas Improving central community open spaces
After being ranked on housing growth project will be assessed against value for money, deliverability, inclusive design and strategic alignment.
The three-year program will require councils to begin work on their funded projects by mid-2027 and complete them by mid-2029.