Warrawong Parklands could become a jewel in the Illawarra’s crown — if a NSW Government bill makes it through Parliament. Image: Artist’s render, NSW Government.
The NSW Government has finalised the master plan for Warrawong Parklands’ multimillion-dollar upgrade — but there are still hurdles ahead of the revamp.
The plan reimagines the 32-hectare parklands on Lake Illawarra’s foreshore as an iconic outdoor destination for all ages and abilities.
A government spokesperson said the master plan was guided by the area’s environmental, cultural and community values, and delivered new spaces in which the community could exercise, play, gather and relax both on the shore and in the water.
The plan’s key features include nearly 10 kilometres of new, accessible pedestrian and cycle paths and walking trails; a 320-metre wetland boardwalk; an Olympic-standard skatepark; upgraded sports field; new inclusive playgrounds and dedicated nature-play areas; improved lake access with steps for casual fishing; flexible spaces for community events, outdoor performances and lakeside dining; and a new, accessible paddleboard and kayak launch pontoon closer to the playground.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said keeping the Warrawong Parklands in public hands was a promise from the Minns Labor Government.
“The Minns Labor Government has delivered on its election commitment,” Mr Scully said.
“For too long, this prime 32-hectare parkland has lacked the attention and investment it and the surrounding community deserves.
“This master plan unlocks its potential, delivering a world-class park with an Olympic-standard skatepark, more than 10 km of new pathways and improved lake access for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing and more.
“Warrawong Parklands is set to become one of the great public spaces in the state.”
The master plan’s focus is on preserving natural features and restoring the wetland environment and biodiversity, as well as improving community access and enjoyment.
For it to become a reality, however, the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Amendment (Review) Bill 2026 needs to pass Parliament.
The legislation prevents the sale of any part of the parklands while “unlocking their potential and supporting their long-term financial sustainability”, according to a NSW Government spokesperson.
To support the new parklands, the State Government has also invested $5 million in the Warrawong seawall upgrade to provide safe public access to Lake Illawarra’s foreshore.
The Warrawong master plan development was overseen by a working group that included community representatives, Wollongong City Council, the Local Aboriginal Land Council and Destination Wollongong.
The draft Warrawong Parklands Master Plan was open for public consultation between 17 September and 15 October, 2025.
To check out the master plan, follow this link.
The replacement of the old seawall is set to begin soon, and will support a marine habitat for plants and fish and provide direct public access to the waterfront.
The recreational space is planned to go hand-in-hand with significant housing growth and densification in the Warrawong area.
