Independent Member for Kurrajong Thomas Emerson has sponsored a community petition calling for evidence-based minimum shade standards for Canberra’s playgrounds. 

Following an audit of playgrounds across NSW in 2022, the Cancer Institute NSW recommended a combination of built and tree shade at every playground, covering at least 70 per cent of play equipment and nearby seating. 

No minimum requirement of this kind exists in the ACT’s Municipal Infrastructure Standards. Mr Emerson has been asking questions in the Assembly about the lack of shade sails at new playgrounds in Watson and elsewhere.

“Some of our brand new playgrounds are basically unusable in summer. On a 30 degree day, surfaces in unshaded playgrounds can reach temperatures well above 50 degrees,” said Mr Emerson.

“Multiple new playgrounds in Canberra don’t have any built shade, and the very young trees that have been planted won’t actually provide shade for many years to come.

”It doesn’t make any sense to build multi-million-dollar playgrounds that simply aren’t safe on hot days.

“I know I avoided several of my kids’ favourite playgrounds over summer due to the lack of shade.

”This issue will only worsen as the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events continue to increase.”

Mr Emerson said many families had raised this issue with him, both formally through his office and informally in conversations at local playgrounds.

”Playgrounds are critical for children’s development, as well as offering spaces for parents to connect during early parenthood, which can be a very isolating time,” Mr Emerson said.

”We’re calling for the ACT Government to establish evidence-based minimum shade standards for playgrounds, incorporating both built and tree shading, and for the development of a plan to meet these standards at new and existing playgrounds across Canberra,” concluded Mr Emerson. 

Quotes attributable to principal petitioner, Simone Black

“I decided to launch this petition after visiting the new playground in Watson and being shocked at the lack of shade. It was summer and it was stinking hot. My baby was too young to wear sunscreen and more vulnerable to heat related illness. I couldn’t believe that the government would spend so much money on a new playground, only to skimp out on something so simple and obvious.

“Playgrounds are such an important place for the community. I want them to be a safe and comfortable place for all of us to gather, play, celebrate and socialise.”

Quotes attributable to CEO of Kidsafe ACT, Francis Ventura

“Kidsafe ACT is aware of a petition before the Assembly regarding minimum shading standards at Canberra playgrounds.

“As an organisation dedicated to keeping children safe from preventable injuries, we are behind every measure that would make a positive difference. Increased shading would make local playgrounds more accessible, and would reduce potential exposure to burns from equipment as well as sun exposure. Enhancing minimum shading requirements would be a positive step, and would make Canberra an even better place for children.

“We encourage members of the community to support the petition, and for the ACT Legislative Assembly to make improved playground facilities a priority.”

ACT residents can sign the petition here. The petition closes 12 September 2026.

The petition is also supported by Cancer Council ACT, Parents for Climate and ACT Playgroups.

MEDIA CONTACT: Will Devine | [email protected] | 0402 183 296