Australians more positive about public green spaces

Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a marked increase in the appreciation and demand for open public spaces, as outlined by Greener Spaces Better Places. Greener Spaces Better Places is a national initiative that brings together government, universities, businesses and industry to make our urban areas greener. Since inception, over 400 organisations and individuals have joined the network to increase, maintain and create better urban green space. 

A recent NSW Government survey also found 46% of people are spending more time in public spaces than before COVID-19, 72% reported appreciating local parks more, and an incredible 96% said they are using public spaces for exercise.

In April 2020, Greener Spaces Better Places conducted a “Pulse Check” study, Government Greening COVID-19, which found that 87% of Australian urban councils had noted a positive shift in community attitudes towards green space. The study included a survey sent to 300+ people working in urban greening in local government across Australia. They also conducted interviews with people working at local and state government and government associations to learn about the challenges and opportunities of the COVID-19 context.

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