Park visits could look different under new 'cash grab' regulations
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Imagine this: you’re planning a family picnic under the Harbour Bridge, or perhaps a relaxing afternoon stroll with your mates and the grandkids in your favourite local park.
You pack the thermos, the lamingtons, and the footy, only to discover there’s a new sign at the gate: 'Fees Apply for Groups Over 20.'
Sound unbelievable? Well, it could soon be a reality for Sydneysiders—and possibly the rest of Australia—if a controversial new proposal goes ahead.
North Sydney Council is considering a move that’s left many locals gobsmacked: introducing fees for groups of more than 20 people using public parks.
The idea is to target commercial operators—think fitness bootcamps, dog walkers, and even schools—who, according to the council, have been 'hogging' these green spaces, sometimes to the detriment of everyday park-goers.
It’s not just about the odd yoga class or a few students kicking a ball around.
Some private schools, like St Aloysius’ College and Marist College, have been using parks such as Bradfield Park and Ted Mack Civic Park for lunch breaks and sports while their own facilities are under renovation.
The council says this has led to overcrowding, noise, and parking headaches for locals.
If the proposal goes through, it won’t just be schools and businesses feeling the pinch. Any group of more than 20 people—think big family reunions, birthday parties, or community gatherings—could be asked to pay up.
And it doesn’t stop there: the council is also looking to ban marquees, tents, confetti, uncooked rice, synthetic flower petals, and coloured powders, making it harder to host weddings and other celebrations in these public spaces.
While North Sydney hasn’t set its prices yet, a look at neighbouring councils gives us a taste of what’s to come.
In Woollahra, hiring a park for a function can set you back $327 per hour. The Northern Beaches? A whopping $483 per hour. Even Lane Cove, which charges a relatively modest $30, asks commercial dog walkers and personal trainers to fork out up to $2,400 a year for a permit.
Mosman tops the charts with fees reaching $1,019 for certain events.
The council insists this isn’t about plugging budget holes or 'revenue raising.' North Sydney Mayor Zoe Baker says it’s about 'fairness and equity'—making sure that those who use public spaces for business or large gatherings contribute to their upkeep.
She points out that ratepayers have complained about parks being turned into 'business hubs' and 'student playgrounds,' leaving less room for everyone else.
But not everyone’s convinced. Some local business owners and celebrants have labelled the move a 'cash grab,' arguing that public parks should remain free for all.
Others admit that a few bad apples—those who leave rubbish behind or blast loud music—have spoiled things for everyone.
Here’s the worrying bit: North Sydney isn’t alone. Councils across Sydney and beyond are already charging for park use, especially for commercial activities. If this trend continues, we could see similar rules popping up in cities and towns across Australia.
And it’s not just about money. The council is also under financial pressure after a failed attempt to hike residential rates by 87 per cent (yes, you read that right!) and ongoing costs from the redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool.
They’ve even asked private schools to voluntarily pay rates, but most have politely declined.
For many of us, public parks are more than just patches of grass—they’re the heart of our communities.
They’re where we catch up with friends, watch the grandkids play, or simply enjoy a bit of fresh air.
The idea of having to pay for the privilege, or being told we can’t set up a marquee for a special occasion, feels like a step too far.
On the other hand, it’s true that parks need to be looked after, and that costs money. If commercial operators are making a profit from public spaces, is it fair that they chip in? Or does this risk turn our parks into exclusive zones, only accessible to those who can afford the fees?
The council is currently seeking feedback from the community before making a final decision.
So, if you have strong feelings about this—one way or the other—now’s the time to speak up!
Would you be happy to pay a fee to use your local park for a big family gathering? Do you think commercial operators should pay more, or is this just another way for councils to squeeze more money out of us? Have you noticed your local park getting busier or harder to access? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read more: NSW national parks proposal to standardise camping fees amid rise in 'ghost camping'
You pack the thermos, the lamingtons, and the footy, only to discover there’s a new sign at the gate: 'Fees Apply for Groups Over 20.'
Sound unbelievable? Well, it could soon be a reality for Sydneysiders—and possibly the rest of Australia—if a controversial new proposal goes ahead.
North Sydney Council is considering a move that’s left many locals gobsmacked: introducing fees for groups of more than 20 people using public parks.
The idea is to target commercial operators—think fitness bootcamps, dog walkers, and even schools—who, according to the council, have been 'hogging' these green spaces, sometimes to the detriment of everyday park-goers.
North Sydney Council is weighing up fees for groups of over 20 in public parks, aimed at commercial users such as trainers, schools and dog walkers. Credit: SolStock / iStock
It’s not just about the odd yoga class or a few students kicking a ball around.
Some private schools, like St Aloysius’ College and Marist College, have been using parks such as Bradfield Park and Ted Mack Civic Park for lunch breaks and sports while their own facilities are under renovation.
The council says this has led to overcrowding, noise, and parking headaches for locals.
If the proposal goes through, it won’t just be schools and businesses feeling the pinch. Any group of more than 20 people—think big family reunions, birthday parties, or community gatherings—could be asked to pay up.
And it doesn’t stop there: the council is also looking to ban marquees, tents, confetti, uncooked rice, synthetic flower petals, and coloured powders, making it harder to host weddings and other celebrations in these public spaces.
While North Sydney hasn’t set its prices yet, a look at neighbouring councils gives us a taste of what’s to come.
In Woollahra, hiring a park for a function can set you back $327 per hour. The Northern Beaches? A whopping $483 per hour. Even Lane Cove, which charges a relatively modest $30, asks commercial dog walkers and personal trainers to fork out up to $2,400 a year for a permit.
Mosman tops the charts with fees reaching $1,019 for certain events.
The council insists this isn’t about plugging budget holes or 'revenue raising.' North Sydney Mayor Zoe Baker says it’s about 'fairness and equity'—making sure that those who use public spaces for business or large gatherings contribute to their upkeep.
She points out that ratepayers have complained about parks being turned into 'business hubs' and 'student playgrounds,' leaving less room for everyone else.
But not everyone’s convinced. Some local business owners and celebrants have labelled the move a 'cash grab,' arguing that public parks should remain free for all.
Others admit that a few bad apples—those who leave rubbish behind or blast loud music—have spoiled things for everyone.
Here’s the worrying bit: North Sydney isn’t alone. Councils across Sydney and beyond are already charging for park use, especially for commercial activities. If this trend continues, we could see similar rules popping up in cities and towns across Australia.
And it’s not just about money. The council is also under financial pressure after a failed attempt to hike residential rates by 87 per cent (yes, you read that right!) and ongoing costs from the redevelopment of the North Sydney Olympic Pool.
They’ve even asked private schools to voluntarily pay rates, but most have politely declined.
For many of us, public parks are more than just patches of grass—they’re the heart of our communities.
They’re where we catch up with friends, watch the grandkids play, or simply enjoy a bit of fresh air.
The idea of having to pay for the privilege, or being told we can’t set up a marquee for a special occasion, feels like a step too far.
On the other hand, it’s true that parks need to be looked after, and that costs money. If commercial operators are making a profit from public spaces, is it fair that they chip in? Or does this risk turn our parks into exclusive zones, only accessible to those who can afford the fees?
The council is currently seeking feedback from the community before making a final decision.
So, if you have strong feelings about this—one way or the other—now’s the time to speak up!
Read more: NSW national parks proposal to standardise camping fees amid rise in 'ghost camping'
