Why Maintaining Australia’s Green Spaces is a Vital National Investment

Australia, a nation renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, is highly urbanised. With over 86% of its population now residing in towns and cities [1], the parks, reserves, and urban green spaces that dot the country’s metropolitan areas have become more than just pleasant scenery; they are critical infrastructure for the nation’s economic prosperity, environmental health, and the well-being of its people. While the value of these green spaces is often taken for granted, their continued ability to provide these extensive benefits rests entirely on the often-unseen work of facilities maintenance.

In our 30 years of managing green spaces facilities, we have found regular, professional maintenance is a must, keeping these spaces functional, healthy and in the best shape possible for the communities they serve.

It is a common misconception to view green spaces as a discretionary ‘nice-to-have’ when budgetary decisions are made. However, recent research paints a starkly different picture. The Australian nature-based outdoor activity sector is a significant part of the economy, with nature-based tourism contributing around $17.1 billion to the Australian economy annually [2]. Looking at the broader picture, research indicates that Australia’s unique biodiversity and natural environment generate an astonishing $511 billion for the Australian economy each year [3]. These figures underscore a crucial reality: parks are not a drain on public funds but a powerful economic engine. They are pivotal in attracting both international and domestic tourism, and they provide essential ecosystem services that support primary industries, from ensuring freshwater quality to promoting biodiversity.

“Nature gives us so much – the fresh air we breathe, clean water to drink, fertile soil to grow our food, and the wildlife and green spaces that bring joy and wonder into our lives. It protects us from floods and heatwaves, supports our mental health, and underpins our economy.” – 30 by 30 Nature Economics Report [3]

Beyond the compelling economic arguments, the maintenance of green spaces is a direct investment in public health. As urban density increases, these areas serve as the green lungs of our cities. Vegetation actively improves air quality by filtering pollutants and absorbing carbon dioxide. Urban parks can create a significant cooling effect, mitigating the dangerous ‘urban heat island effect’ during Australia’s increasingly severe heat waves [4]. Furthermore, with physical inactivity costing the Australian health system an estimated $2.4 billion annually [5], accessible and well-maintained parks are essential for encouraging active lifestyles. Studies show that ‘green exercise’, such as walking or running in a park, is more restorative and beneficial for mental health than the same activity in a built-up urban environment [4]. Access to these spaces has the potential to reduce healthcare costs by hundreds of millions of dollars each year [6].

The social fabric of our communities is also woven within these green spaces. They are the settings for community events, sports, and informal social interactions that build trust and a sense of belonging. With one in four Australian adults experiencing loneliness, higher-quality green spaces maximise opportunities for both social connection and health, cutting the odds of becoming lonely by up to a quarter [7]. This is particularly critical as Australia faces an ongoing housing crisis and a push towards greater urban densification. As private gardens shrink, the importance of well-maintained public parks grows exponentially. These shared backyards must be safe, accessible, and appealing to serve a diverse population.

However, none of these benefits are guaranteed. We have found they are the direct result of dedicated and professional facilities maintenance. This work extends far beyond simple lawn mowing. It involves the careful management of native bushland reserves to protect unique Australian flora and fauna, the maintenance of playgrounds and sports fields to ensure safety, the care of intricate garden displays, and the preservation of pathways and amenities. Our clients tell us without this constant stewardship, parks can quickly fall into disrepair, becoming unsafe and unwelcoming, and their immense value is lost.

In conclusion, the maintenance of Australia’s green spaces is not an expense but a critical investment in the nation’s future. It is an investment that pays dividends in economic growth, environmental resilience, public health, and social cohesion. As our cities continue to grow, we must recognise that these green havens are not a luxury but a fundamental pillar of a prosperous and healthy society. Protecting and nurturing them through professional facilities maintenance is a responsibility we owe to current and future generations of Australians.

References

[1] World Bank. (2024). Urban population (% of total population) – Australia. https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS?locations=AU

[2] ABC News. (2025). Nature’s economic worth calculated. https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/am/nature-s-economic-worth-calculated/105727728

[3] 30 by 30. (2025). Nature Economics Report. https://30by30.org.au/nature-economics-report/

[4] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2024). Built environment and health. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/built-environment-and-health

[5] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2023). Sport and exercise save the Australian health system more than they cost in injuries. https://www.aihw.gov.au/news-media/media-releases/2023/2023-september/sport-and-exercise-save-the-australian-health-system-more-than-they-cost-in-injuries

[6] University of Adelaide. (2024). Healthy economic value in visiting green spaces. https://www.adelaide.edu.au/newsroom/news/list/2024/12/03/healthy-economic-value-in-visiting-green-spaces

[7] University of Wollongong. (2022). 1 in 4 Australians is lonely. Quality green spaces in our cities offer a solution. https://www.uow.edu.au/media/2022/1-in-4-australians-is-lonely-quality-green-spaces-in-our-cities-offer-a-solution.php