Playgrounds and outdoor gyms among possibilities for Victorian local parks

Victorians are being invited by the state government to have their say on how local parks and green spaces can be improved as the government delivers more homes across Victoria.

From creating a new 'pocket' park in an urban space, improving a playground, adding outdoor fitness equipment, or making accessibility upgrades, to new shade and seating, all ideas are welcomed to create spaces that connect communities.

Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing this week launched the first phase of the $30 million Pick My Park program, where the community can provide feedback on current and new parks across eligible suburbs in Melbourne, Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong.

The Pick My Park program will target areas that are building more homes, including Melbourne's Suburban Rail Loop precincts and Activity Centres – identifying the essential role of parks and open spaces for public health and community connection for people of all ages.

Ideas from the community will be shared with park and land managers to help shape project proposals, before Victorians are invited to vote on the proposals that will receive a share of grant funding.

Winning projects will receive grants from $20,000 to $250,000 for park upgrades that focus on improving existing parks and open spaces, and new urban parks that will transform underused land into new green spaces for the whole community to enjoy.

The program builds on the broad range of new and upgraded park investments made across Victoria - from the family-friendly playground at Ludwig Stamer Reserve in South Melbourne, to a thriving green community plaza in Carnegie, and the much-loved Belmont Park Dog Park in Geelong.

To get involved, or view the full list of eligible suburbs visit engage.vic.gov.au, drop a pin on the map, and complete a short survey.