New South Wales opens school grounds to public
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The New South Wales Labor government will extend its Share Our Space program to all new public schools opening in the state over the next two years.
The program allows residents to use school playgrounds and ovals during holidays and after school hours, addressing a lack of green space in rapidly growing suburbs of Sydney. Deputy Premier Prue Car announced the expansion, stating it provides timely solutions for communities feeling overlooked.
Ten new schools in western Sydney, in Edmondson Park, Jordan Springs, Leppington, Melrose Park, Tallawong, Gables, Macquarie Park, Gledswood Hills and Wilton, and ten more schools across New South Wales will join the program when they open in 2027 and 2028. Previously, schools had to choose to participate, requiring the Department of Education to provide security and maintenance. Currently, most participating schools are located on Sydney’s eastern side, with fewer options between Parramatta and Penrith.
The expansion aims to provide more recreational space in the north-west and south-west growth areas, where past planning decisions have created infrastructure challenges. Premier Chris Minns believes school facilities should be accessible when not in use for classes.
