Play Spaces Strategy Sets Vision For Inclusive, Connected Communities

Published on 30 September 2026

Horsham Rural City Council has adopted the Horsham Municipal Play Spaces Strategy 2026-2036 (Play for All), establishing a long-term framework to guide how play spaces are planned, renewed and improved across the municipality over the next decade.

Developed through extensive research, technical assessment and community consultation, the strategy provides Council with its first dedicated municipal-wide framework for play spaces, helping ensure future investment is targeted, equitable and responsive to the needs of residents.

The strategy was informed by a comprehensive review of Council's 26 municipal play spaces, technical assessments and input from more than 760 community members.

Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the strategy provided a clear vision for creating play spaces that support both children and the broader community.

"Play spaces are where children learn, play and build friendships, but they're also important community gathering places for families and residents of all ages," Cr Klowss said.

"This strategy gives us a practical roadmap to improve these spaces and ensure they continue to meet community needs into the future."

A key feature of the strategy is a commitment to create network of differing levels of play spaces, categorised as Local, Neighbourhood and Regional, helping guide future investment and establish consistent service levels across the municipality.

The review identified opportunities to improve accessibility, increase the variety of play experiences available, provide more opportunities for nature play and better cater for older children and young people, while also improving supporting amenities such as shade and seating.

Cr Klowss said community feedback had played a significant role in shaping the final strategy.

"Residents told us they want play spaces that are inclusive, welcoming and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities," he said.

"Their feedback has helped ensure this strategy reflects the priorities of our community."

While consultation highlighted interest in additional playgrounds in some locations, the assessment found many existing play spaces would benefit from renewal and improvement. As a result, the strategy prioritises investment in existing facilities while providing a framework to support future neighbourhood and regional projects, as well as investigate new play spaces where genuine gaps in service are identified.

The strategy also includes an indicative 10-year funding plan to support long-term planning and strengthen Council's ability to secure external funding.

Cr Klowss said the strategy would help Council make informed decisions while remaining responsive to changing community needs.

"This is a flexible framework that will help guide future investment and ensure we achieve the greatest benefit for our communities," he said.

"It also places Council in a stronger position to attract external funding and deliver better outcomes across our municipality."

Council will continue to consider priorities and funding through its annual budget process, with community engagement to occur alongside major future play space projects.

"Adopting the strategy is just the first step," Cr Klowss said.

"As projects progress, local communities will continue to have opportunities to help shape the spaces they use and value every day."