Released 17/09/2025
The ACT Government funded a range of exciting new projects in the 2025/26 ACT Budget. The initial steps are underway to deliver better infrastructure for the community, now and into the future.
Upgraded and new places to play
The ACT Government recognises the critical role and value of play in enriching the lives of Canberrans of all ages and creating a healthy, connected, vibrant and sustainable community. There are over 500 playgrounds across Canberra owned and managed by the ACT Government, and we are continuing to invest in our playgrounds by delivering new and upgraded play facilities.
In 2024, an election commitment was made to improve play facilities in eight suburbs across Canberra. Upgrades will be delivered to the playgrounds at:
- Morice Place, Hussy Cove and Marquet Retreat, Bonython
- Yabtree Place, Isabella Plains
- Cremorne Place, Conder
- Lascelles Circuit, Kambah
- Jeffery Place, McKellar
- Bizant Street, Amaroo
New playgrounds will also be built in Gilmore at Henry Melville Crescent, Wanniassa at Sternberg Crescent West and in Amaroo near the local shops. A new all-abilities playground will also be built at Sir Howard Florey Oval. The all-abilities playground will cater to a range of abilities and feature inclusive play opportunities for children and their families to play, socialise, explore and challenge physical limits.
Nearby, new playgrounds will be built in the Umbagong District Park and Margaret Timpson Park. A new toilet and a ramp to aid accessibility at the northern approach are also planned for Margaret Timpson Park.
Preliminary planning is underway for all playground projects, and design work will begin soon.
It doesn’t stop there. Design is also underway to activate Emu inlet and deliver a new water play area near the southern shore of Lake Ginninderra. A design consultant has been engaged, and design work is underway in consultation with key stakeholders.
Improvements at shops
We know Canberrans value their community hubs. That’s why the ACT Government delivers a program of improvements to the public spaces at shops.
In this program, improvements will be delivered in Palmerston and Griffith. This work will focus on access, safety and increasing amenity.
Larger upgrades are coming to Erindale, Charnwood and Mawson shops. The works may include new or improved lighting, park/street furniture, pathways and paving, playground equipment, integrated community artwork, new signage, improved traffic and car parking arrangements and new landscaping and tree planting.
The ACT Government will engage with local businesses on the delivery of upgrades and the proposed improvements. Concept designs for each of these projects will be shared with the community in 2026.
You can find more information, stay up to date, or sign up for email updates on the City Services website at www.cityservices.act.gov.au.
- Statement ends -
Tara Cheyne, MLA | Media Releases