Today’s playgrounds are a far cry from the humble swings and slides of the past. Playgrounds are getting supersized—and for good reason. The growing investment in playgrounds comes down to several factors but is largely driven by health and wellbeing.

With children moving less than previous generations, play is critical not just for physical health but also for mental and social development. Climbing, swinging, jumping—they’re essential for motor development but they also build skills in risk assessment, problem-solving, logic and memory.

Getting the Community Moving

Playgrounds aren’t just for kids. The knock-on effect of playgrounds is the boost to adult health. Accompanying children to playgrounds increases adult activity and strengthens parent-child bonds. Multigenerational playgrounds allow older kids and adults to exercise together, creating spaces that benefit the whole community.

Friedlander Place in St Leonards, offers table tennis and green space for sports as well as the nature-themed play structure, allowing children of all ages to play together.

Playgrounds That Have It All

As the squeeze on housing continues to shape urban living, playgrounds need to provide more than play. Multi-use recreational areas are needed to support passive activity, social zones, sports, dog walking and provide a connection to nature.

Butterscotch Park in North Rosebery, once a bland industrial estate, is now a thriving community hub for kids, teens, adults, and dogs alike.

Good for Business

Playgrounds aren’t just community infrastructure—they’re good for business. Hotels, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and retail spaces see increased visitation and ROI by adding engaging play areas.

Eastern Creek Quarter is a local favourite, with climbing pods and interactive features that draw the community in.

Play for Everyone

Inclusivity is front and centre in modern playground design. Play spaces need to cater to people of all abilities and needs, including wheelchair access and limited sensory zones.

The playground at Ed.Square Town Centre combines active zones with quiet areas for sensory needs, creating a space that is accessible, safe and welcoming to all.

More than Play

Playgrounds are evolving into valuable civic assets. Sustainability, community engagement and First Nations storytelling are now on top of the list of requirements. Nature-based play brings urban residents closer to the natural world, while organic materials that weather and change with time, provide a reference to culture and place.

Canal Road Park in Greystanes features carved timber logs and stone etched with animal motifs and Indigenous symbols. First Nations storytelling is woven throughout the playground, connecting modern day life to ancient Dharug stories.

The Ribbon Playground in Darling Harbour offers an epic adventure for kids, with climbing structures, bridges, tunnels, and toddler-safe zones—layered with references to nature and Indigenous storytelling. The playground has become an attraction in itself in the busy entertainment precinct.

The business case for investment in playgrounds is a win all round. They create healthier people, strengthen social connection and deliver measureable ROI. From swings to stories, today’s playgrounds are more than play—they are place of connection and inspiration that energise our communities.

To learn more about playgrounds, see our portfolio of playground projects.