Queensland Government
Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services
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About the Queensland All Abilities Playground Project

Three children playing at a playground

Play is of fundamental importance to children's health, wellbeing and learning.

The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring that all children, including those with a disability, have equal access to playgrounds so they can learn, grow and develop during play.

The government's Queensland All Abilities Playground Project — enabling participation in play — recognises the pivotal role that play has in the lives of young Queenslanders.

In September 2007, $4.6 million in project grants was allocated to local councils across the state to develop 16 all abilities play spaces in collaboration with local communities, Disability Services and industry specialists. [Read media release] 

The 16 new playgrounds build on the success and are in addition to the state's first all abilities playground at Pioneer Park on the Sunshine Coast.

What is an all abilities playground?

All abilities playgrounds are places where children of all ages and abilities can experience fun and challenging play alongside their friends and family members.

These recreational spaces inherently use a range of natural and built environments to encourage different types of play, such as active, exploratory and social play, and apply innovative approaches in design to break down barriers for children with a disability.

 

Project objectives

The Queensland All Abilities Playground Project sought to create 16 all abilities playgrounds across the state that:

  • are innovative and creative solutions to supporting the development and wellbeing of all children
  • strengthen families by establishing a safe and free community resource that enables families to relax and enjoy respite
  • value the importance of community involvement in the decision-making and planning process of each unique site through the application of a user participation design framework. This will enable families, children and the broader community to develop a sense of ownership and connectedness with the playgrounds.

The participatory design method used in the creation of the play spaces seeks to actively involve playground users from the community in all aspects of the design process, including planning, design development and construction.

Involving children with a disability and their families in the design process enables them to have a voice and exercise control over how their needs are addressed.

Why have an all abilities playground in your community?

  • All abilities playgrounds are socially responsive to the needs of all children and families in your community.
  • They enable children with disabilities to play outdoors with their friends and siblings.
  • They provide opportunity for parents and carers to relax and talk with other parents and carers, which leads to the development of relationships and networks that can strengthen communities and promote social inclusion.
  • They are a safe and free community asset that will enhance the health, wellbeing and learning of all children.