Creating safe playgrounds is a top priority for councils across Australia. Fencing around outdoor play spaces plays a crucial role in preventing children from running into hazards such as busy roads, waterways, or encountering animals. While public playgrounds are not mandated to be fenced, councils must conduct thorough risk assessments to determine the necessity of fencing. Many councils opt for high-quality gate hardware to enhance safety, ensuring that playgrounds remain secure environments for children to enjoy and peace of mind for parents.
Government Compliance Rules for Playgrounds
In NSW, playgrounds must adhere to the Australian Standards for playground equipment and surfacing, specifically AS 4685. While these standards focus on the development, installation, inspection, maintenance, and operation of playground equipment, they do not currently include specific requirements for perimeter fencing. However, it would be beneficial for councils and standards bodies to consider incorporating guidelines for boundary fences around playgrounds. Including features such as self-closing hinges and latches that snap shut would enhance safety by ensuring gates remain securely closed, preventing children from wandering out of the play area.
Key points perimeter boundaries should include:
1.   Height and Structure: Fences around playgrounds must be of a sufficient height to prevent children from climbing over. Typically, this means a minimum height of 1.2 meters.
2.   Material and Design: The materials used for fencing must be durable and free from sharp edges or protrusions that could cause injury. The design should also prevent children from getting stuck or trapped.
3.   Gates and Access Points: Gates must be self-closing and self-latching to ensure they remain closed when not in use.
The Role of D&D Gate Hardware
D&D Technologies is renowned for its innovative gate hardware solutions designed to enhance safety and security. Two of their standout products, MagnaLatch® and TruClose® self-closing hinges, are widely used in playgrounds for their reliability and effectiveness.
Reid Park, Mosman Bay
A notable example of these safety measures in action is the recent upgrade at Reid Park, Mosman Bay. Mosman Council completed a significant refurbishment of the playground in April 2025, the first since 2005.
The new playground features an interactive nature play area, inclusive play equipment, rubber soft-fall surfacing, and a shade sail.
As part of the upgrade, MagnaLatches and TruClose self-closing hinges were installed on the playground gates to ensure maximum safety for children. This installation reflects Mosman Council's commitment to providing a secure and enjoyable environment for young residents and their families. The landscaping work was expertly carried out by GJ's Landscape and Civil, known for their high standards and attention to detail
Robert Pymble Park, Pymble
Robert Pymble playground has been themed around the area’s former use as a fruit farm by its namesake Robert Pymble. Playground equipment designed for all ages and abilities includes a tractor, a farm-inspired climbing frame and fruit shaped rockers.
Growth Civil Landscapes was the landscaping company that worked on Robert Pymble Park. They received a Silver Award for their work in the Commercial and Civil Construction category at the 2024 NSW Landscape Association Excellence Awards.
The goal of the upgrade to Robert Pymble Park was to create an attractive, engaging and inclusive community place for everyone in the local community to enjoy. Features of the upgraded park include:
The boundary fence includes a 1200mm gate that opens inwards towards the play area, away from the road, a large stop sign on the gate when exiting, a MagnaLatch® Top Pull and Truclose®  Heavy Duty self-closing hinges.
Benefits of Using MagnaLatches and TruClose Hinges
By choosing high-quality gate hardware like MagnaLatch and TruClose self-closing hinges, councils in NSW are taking significant steps to ensure the safety of children in playgrounds. These measures not only provide peace of mind for parents and caregivers but also contribute to creating a secure and enjoyable environment for children to play and explore.
For more information on playground safety standards and D&D gate hardware, you can visit the Standards Australia website and D&D Technologies.
