Kempsey Shire is a vibrant community that prides itself on inclusivity and the celebration of diversity. However, when it comes to accessible and inclusive play spaces for children and families with special needs, our community is falling behind. Current public playgrounds do not adequately cater to children with disabilities, leaving many without a safe place to play, socialise, and thrive alongside their peers.

Families are often forced to travel to Coffs Harbour or Port Macquarie just to access an inclusive or fenced playground. For many families, this is not always possible, and the long travel can lead to overload before they even arrive. It is time for change. Kempsey Shire needs a dedicated, accessible, inclusive, and fully fenced disability playground.

An accessible playground is more than wheelchair access—it is about creating an environment where children with a wide range of needs, including sensory, cognitive, communication, and physical disabilities, can play with ease. A fully fenced design provides essential safety and peace of mind for parents and carers, allowing children the freedom to explore independently in a secure environment. This playground would include specialised equipment and facilities tailored for all abilities, ensuring no child is excluded or left on the sidelines.

The benefits of inclusive play extend far beyond the playground. Access to play is vital for children’s development—supporting their physical health, emotional wellbeing, social skills, confidence, and sense of belonging. Inclusive playgrounds promote interaction and friendships between children of all abilities, building empathy, understanding, and stronger communities.

Kempsey Shire has the opportunity to become a leader in inclusivity by showing what it truly means to support every member of our community. We urge Kempsey Shire Council and all relevant stakeholders to allocate funding, planning, and resources towards the creation of a dedicated inclusive, accessible, and fenced disability playground.

We call upon the people of Kempsey Shire and supporters of disability rights to sign this petition—
advocating for a playground where every child belongs.