Residents on the Mornington Peninsula can now have a say on the future of local playgrounds and outdoor exercise spaces as council prepares a new 10-year plan.
Mornington Peninsula Shire has opened consultation on its Play Space and Outdoor Exercise Equipment Strategy, which will guide how council plans, improves and prioritises public play spaces and outdoor fitness equipment across the municipality.
The review covers about 151 public play spaces and nine outdoor fitness stations.
Council says it will look at accessibility, inclusion, condition, safety, location, and whether existing spaces meet the needs of different ages and abilities.
The process follows the Shire’s previous Playspace Strategy, which covered 2015 to 2020.
While the new strategy may identify areas needing upgrades or more play opportunities, it does not guarantee immediate works.
Council says future projects will still depend on priorities, funding and budget decisions.
What Residents Can Comment On
Residents can tell council which playgrounds and outdoor exercise areas work well, where improvements are needed, and which communities may lack suitable spaces.
Council is seeking feedback on issues such as shade, equipment variety, safety, accessibility, comfort, age-friendly design, and facilities for people of different abilities.
The strategy focuses on public play spaces and outdoor exercise equipment in public open space.
It does not cover school playgrounds, childcare or kindergarten play spaces, indoor recreation facilities, privately owned play spaces, or skate parks and BMX facilities unless they directly connect with play or outdoor exercise spaces.
Acting Mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said playgrounds and outdoor fitness parks played an important role in community life.
“Our playgrounds and outdoor fitness parks are vital community assets, places where children develop and make friends, families connect, and people of all ages stay active and live well,” Cr Pingiaro said.
“A lot has changed since our last strategy was developed, and we want to make sure our planning reflects where our community is today and where it’s heading.”
Consultation Open Until 21 June
Consultation opened on Monday, 25 May 2026 and closes on Sunday, 21 June 2026.
Residents can complete the survey through the Shape Our Future page.
Council will also hold three pop-up sessions from 10am to 1pm:
- Wednesday, 3 June: Mornington Library
- Wednesday, 10 June: Hastings Library
- Friday, 12 June: Rosebud Library
Community feedback will help council assess existing play spaces and outdoor exercise equipment, set future priorities, and prepare a draft strategy and implementation plan.
Council expects to release the draft strategy for further community feedback before finalising it later in 2026.
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