The News Hub

Published: 21 August 2026.

Have you ever wanted to make a direct impact on the design of your local community? If you have, the City of Burnside’s co-design process sounds right up your street.

Co-design is one of the ways the City of Burnside works alongside residents and community groups to shape projects that matter to the community – and you don’t even need specialised knowledge to take part. Rather than presenting a draft or concept design and asking for feedback, co-design invites community members into the conversation from the very beginning through involvement across numerous workshops.

When Council begins a playground project, staff don’t arrive with a completed design. Instead, the process starts by researching the site’s history, opportunities and constraints, reviewing community survey results and gathering feedback from local schools, clubs and community groups. Staff also come prepared with a strong understanding of playground safety standards, accessibility requirements, current best practice in inclusive play design and information about tree protection.

At the first workshop, this background information is shared with the group of residents and then the conversation begins.

A key starting question is often: What was your favourite playground as a child? These conversations quickly open up memories, ideas and reflections about what makes a great play space. The group sometimes talk about favourite playgrounds people have visited more recently and what features make them enjoyable and welcoming. Participants discuss what they would like to see in the new playground. including play experiences, equipment, materials, colours, themes, seating and landscape features.

Following the workshop, Council’s landscape architect develops a concept plan that incorporates as much of the community’s feedback as possible within the project budget.

A second co-design workshop brings everything together. Participants review the outcomes from community surveys, engagement with local schools and groups and discussions from the first workshop. A draft concept plan is then presented for discussion, with participants invited to share what they like, what could be improved and what might be missing. Together, the group works towards refining the design and making decisions about what elements should be kept, changed or further developed.

By the end of the process, the community has played a direct role in shaping the final design.

Importantly, you don’t need any design experience or technical knowledge to take part. Your lived experience of using parks and playgrounds is what matters most.

Thinking about joining a workshop?

Co-design workshops are informal, welcoming and open to everyone.

• No design experience is required.
• All ages and backgrounds are welcome.
• You can join in as much or as little as you like.
• Every idea is listened to and considered.
• The sessions are relaxed, conversational and collaborative.
• No need to organise a babysitter. Bringing children is not only welcome, it’s encouraged.

Workshop locations are chosen based on proximity to the playground along with accessibility considerations and good toilets. If you have any concerns you can reach out prior to the workshop and our team will send through the details of the space.

Webb Street Reserve Playground was a recent example of a successful co-design approach.

Keep an eye on your letter box for any upcoming projects in your area.

A co-design workshop in progress

It's not just adults who we consult with