Blog

Safety First: AS 4422 (Int):2022 Playground Surfacing and Its Interim Release
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Playgrounds that Embrace All Abilities: AS 1428.1:2021 and Its Impact on Inclusive Design
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AS 16630 (2021): A Game-Changer in Outdoor Fitness Equipment Standards
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The Latest Standard for Skateparks: AS EN 14974 (2021)
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What Are the Latest Trends in Playground Design in Australia?
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Ensuring Safety and Fun: Australian Standards for Playground Equipment and Surfacing
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Enhancing Safety and Fun: AS 4685 Part 1-6 (2021) Update for Playground Equipment and Surfacing
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Why Is Compliance with Playground Standards Essential?
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Understanding the Four Types of Playground Inspections in Australia
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Pricing Playground Inspections: A Guide for New Companies and Sole Traders in Australia
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Choosing Age-Appropriate Playground Equipment: Guidelines for Selecting Equipment Suitable for Different Age Groups
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News

Crew demolish playground equipment, shocking some homeless.jpg
Crew demolish playground that had become ‘a haven for drug users and unhoused people’
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skater works to protect others after near-death injury
'Dangerous' playground equipment removed from Lower Burrell Park
'Dangerous' playground equipment removed from Lower Burrell Park
How adult playgrounds are revolutionising fitness in more ways than one.jpg
How adult playgrounds are revolutionising fitness in more ways than one
Council under fire over 'depressing' worn out playgrounds .png
Council under fire over 'depressing' worn out playgrounds
WA mum calls for urgent action after finding 60 needles on streets, playgrounds
WA mum calls for urgent action after finding 60 needles on streets and playgrounds
Are playgrounds too safe? Why anthropologists say kids need to monkey around
Are playgrounds too safe? Why anthropologists say kids need to monkey around
Charity's playground air pollution warning
Charity's playground air pollution warning
8-year-old Aussie girl pricked by needle in Primary School playground
8-year-old Aussie girl pricked by needle in Primary School playground
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Parents face fines if children violate skate park policy
Masked man accused of trying to steal playground equipment in Evansville .jpg
Masked man accused of trying to steal playground equipment in Evansville
4-year-old poked by hypodermic needle found on school playground
4-year-old poked by hypodermic needle found on school playground: ‘Complete panic’
Children find box full of drugs and candy on school playground, cops say
Children find box full of drugs and candy on school playground, cops say
Faecal find on playground beach leads to cleanup and conversation
Faecal find on playground beach leads to cleanup and conversation
Requests to Restrict access to school grounds and playgrounds, likely not possible
Requests to Restrict access to school grounds and playgrounds, likely not possible
Probe into multiple zip wire and swing accidents at playground
Probe into multiple zip wire and swing accidents at playground
Nightmare playgrounds of the past which would give health and safety a headache .jpg
Nightmare playgrounds of the past which would give health and safety a headache
Parents protest as council remove children’s DIY bike jump
Parents protest as council remove children’s DIY bike jump
Beachgoers welcome plans for adventure playground made with ocean waste
Beachgoers welcome plans for adventure playground made with ocean waste
Recycling PPE for playground surfaces
Recycling PPE for playground surfaces
Proper greening of schoolyards fosters inclusion, creative learning and children's health
Proper greening of schoolyards fosters inclusion, creative learning and children's health
Case closed Community helps Jacksonville school for children with autism replace stolen playground
Case closed: Community helps Jacksonville school for children with autism replace stolen playground
Police arrest suspects for hate speech, graffiti and vandalism of three different playgrounds and parks
Police arrest suspects for hate speech, graffiti and vandalism of three different playgrounds and parks
Playground fire caused by children playing with matches
Playground fire caused by children playing with matches
Skatepark shut ‘until further notice’ after child injured in hole on ramp
Skatepark shut ‘until further notice’ after child injured in hole on ramp
Graffiti at skate park removed included swastika logos
Graffiti at skate park causes consideration for motion sensor cameras
9-year-old fractures multiple bones falling off swing, school fails to alert parents
9-year-old fractures multiple bones falling off swing, school fails to alert parents
'I just screamed' Playground design blamed after child hit by bike
'I just screamed': Playground design blamed after child hit by e-bike
Mum’s dangerous find at children’s playground reveals ‘frightening’ trend
Mum’s dangerous find at children’s playground reveals ‘frightening’ trend
How the Olympic Games Forever Changed Skate Parks
How the Olympic Games Forever Changed Skate Parks
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Elementary school playground wrecked by car crash
Overseas children to enjoy recycled playgrounds that don’t meet Australian standards
Overseas children to enjoy recycled playgrounds that don’t meet Australian standards
Letter from 11-Year-Old to Councilmember Highlights Concerns as Adults Overrun playground.jpg
Letter from 11-Year-Old to Councilmember Highlights Concerns as Adults Overrun playground
The Texas Sized Surprise You’ll Find in This Massive Skate Park
The Texas Sized Surprise You’ll Find in This Massive Skatepark
Controversial debate for parent installing ‘gross’ playground feature that poses health risk
Controversial debate for parent installing ‘gross’ playground feature that poses health risk
Why did this new playground cost over $1 Million Park district provides explanation
Why did this new playground cost over $1 Million? Park district provides explanation
In case you missed it. playgrounds aren’t just for kids...they’re also for the kids at heart!
In case you missed it: playgrounds aren’t just for kids – they’re also for the kids at heart!
Study shows female skateboarders ‘confined to the margins’ of the skating community
Study shows female skateboarders ‘confined to the margins’ of the skating community
Rotting train-themed playground equipment removed for safety
Rotting train-themed playground equipment removed for safety
Skate Park approved despite local concerns
Skate Park approved despite local concerns

What Are the Latest Trends in Playground Design in Australia?

Playgrounds have come a long way from the simple swings and slides of the past. Today, playground design is a dynamic field that continuously evolves to create innovative, safe, and engaging spaces for children to play and explore. If you’re interested in keeping up with the latest trends in playground design, especially within an Australian context, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the exciting trends shaping the future of playgrounds in Australia.

Nature-Inspired Play

Boy climbing on tree branch photo – Free Playground Image on Unsplash

One of the prevailing trends in playground design is the incorporation of natural elements. Australian playgrounds are increasingly featuring elements like tree logs, rocks, and water features to provide children with a more organic play experience. Nature-inspired playgrounds help connect children with the environment, stimulate their senses, and encourage imaginative play. These designs often blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

Inclusive and Accessible Design

790+ Accessible Playground Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images -  iStock | Wheelchair

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of modern playground design in Australia. Designers are working diligently to ensure that playgrounds are accessible to children of all abilities. You’ll find ramps, wide pathways, and adaptive equipment that allow children with disabilities to play alongside their peers. This trend reflects the commitment to creating welcoming and equitable play spaces that foster social interaction and friendships among all children.

Adventure Playgrounds

Adventure playgrounds are gaining popularity in Australia. These playgrounds are designed to challenge children both mentally and physically, encouraging risk-taking and problem-solving. They often include elements like climbing nets, zip lines, and challenging obstacle courses. Adventure playgrounds provide a thrilling and educational play experience that helps children develop confidence, resilience, and physical skills.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Features

Four-year-old Felek plays in an AirBubble, an innovative playground providing clean air thanks to algae (seen in tubes in the background) that absorbs pollutants and CO2, in Warsaw, Poland, July 26, 2021. (AFP Photo)

Australia’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in playground design trends. Many new playgrounds are integrating eco-friendly features such as recycled materials, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving landscaping. This not only reduces the environmental impact of playgrounds but also serves as a valuable educational tool for teaching children about sustainability and conservation.

Shaded and Water Play

210+ Playground Sails Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock63 Best Free Water Parks in Melbourne & Victoria

Given Australia’s sunny climate, shade is a crucial consideration in playground design. Many playgrounds now feature shaded areas or structures that protect children from the harsh sun. Additionally, water play areas have become increasingly popular, offering a refreshing and interactive way for children to cool off during hot Australian summers.

Innovative Technology Integration

Technology vs Nature – Why Outdoors Activities Are Essential for Kids –  LIFE AS A HUMAN

While traditional play remains essential, some playgrounds are incorporating technology in creative ways. Augmented reality (AR) and interactive installations can enhance the play experience by merging the physical and digital worlds. These technologies provide educational opportunities and engage children in new and exciting ways.

Community Involvement

A notable trend in Australian playground design is increased community involvement. Communities are actively participating in the design and development of local playgrounds, ensuring that they meet the specific needs and preferences of the residents. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and pride in these community spaces.

In conclusion, playground design in Australia is continually evolving to reflect the changing needs and desires of children and their communities. By staying informed about these latest trends, you can create or enjoy playgrounds that are not only fun but also safe, inclusive, and environmentally conscious. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or playground designer, embracing these trends can lead to the creation of vibrant and enriching play environments for children across Australia.

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