The Metropolitan Greenspace Program (MGP) helps create liveable places, great neighbourhoods and build sustainable communities, delivering a network of high-quality green space that connects town centres, public transport hubs, and major residential areas.
The MGP commits grant funding to local councils in Greater Sydney and the Central Coast for projects that improve and increase access to regionally significant open space.
The MGP is the longest running open space grants program, having started in 1983. Since 1990 over $62 million has been provided to more than 680 projects.
Grants are offered on a dollar-for-dollar basis for capital and planning works. Eligible capital works projects include shared pedestrian and cycle pathways, new or improved parks and open spaces, improved signage and accessibility. Eligible planning projects include open-space plans, plans of management and master plans that will lead to capital works.
Funding for the program comes from the Sydney Region Development Fund, which is administered by the Office of Strategic Lands.
2023-24 applications are now open
A total of $3 million in funding is available to help councils deliver projects to enhance access to regionally significant public open space and contribute to the Green Grid.
All councils in the Greater Sydney region and Central Coast Council are eligible and encouraged to apply by 29 April 2024.
To find out more about how to apply, read the Metropolitan Greenspace Program Grant program guidelines (PDF, 983 KB).
Successful applicants will be announced in June 2024.
2022-23 grants
In December 2022, 11 councils were awarded up to $2.82 million for 11 projects. The funding will support 29,098 homes to have access to open space within a 10 minute (800 m) walk.
Applications were assessed by an independent panel of experts. They are assessed against the program’s key objectives, including improving regionally significant open spaces, promoting partnerships between state and local governments, and committing to the design and future management of open space.
Successful grant projects
The following digital map shows successful projects for the most recent grant rounds.
Static versions of the maps are also available for the following grant rounds:
Places to roam, Community Gardens grants now open
Sydney metropolitan councils can now also apply for funding for community garden and bushcare programs to support their local community under the third round of the NSW Government’s Places to Roam program.
For more information about the grant program and application process for the next round, email the team at [email protected]