Greener Places

The draft Greener Places policy has been produced by GANSW to guide the design, planning and delivery of green infrastructure across NSW. The draft policy defines green infrastructure as the network of green spaces, natural systems and semi-natural systems including parks, rivers, bushland and private gardens that are strategically planned, designed, and managed to support good quality of life in the urban environment.

The aim is to create healthier and more liveable cities and towns by improving community access to recreation and exercise, supporting walking and cycling connections, and improving the resilience of our urban areas.

Well-designed green infrastructure responds to four key principles:

The extended development and consultation period has provided the community and key stakeholders with the opportunity to help shape the final document. Following consideration of the feedback received, the draft Greener Places policy has been revised and will be released this year.

We would like to thank the many individuals and organisations that have provided feedback on the draft.

Implementing Greener Places

Sydney Green Grid

Greener Places builds on the Sydney Green Grid strategy developed by GANSW to create a network of high-quality green areas that connect town centres, public transport networks and major residential areas in Sydney. You can download a brief overview of the Sydney Green Grid or read the reports in detail.

Office of Open Space

The Office of Open Space is part of the NSW Government’s Department of Planning, Industry and Environment. The Office works with government, industry and communities to ensure everyone in NSW can enjoy attractive, safe and accessible parks and outdoor spaces.

The team focuses on creating, promoting and encouraging enjoyable functional spaces to meet the needs of our unique communities. Their programs demonstrate their commitment to creating better places for recreation, relaxation and wellbeing.

Read the brochure for more information about their programs (Everyone Can Play, Five Million Trees, Greener Greater Sydney, Metropolitan Greenspace program)

Metropolitan Greenspace program

Of particular relevance is the announcement of 20 new grants as part of the Metropolitan Greenspace Program. This project is an annual grants funding program that provides up to $4 million to improve regional open space in the Greater Metropolitan Sydney Region. The delivery of projects identified in this round of funding will contribute to the delivery of the draft Greener Places policy and the priorities identified by the Sydney Green Grid audit.

Find out more at the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment