The State Liberal Opposition and Federal Coalition has today announced a $10 million funding commitment each to enable the environmental and recreational transformation of Linear Park.
Contributing to the Federal Coalition’s ‘Linear Park Connection Project’, the State Liberal Opposition has committed $10 million, if elected in 2026, to support the transformation.
This means that up to $30 million of projects could be delivered, funded equally by each tier of government.
The funding will enable local councils with responsibility for maintaining sections of Linear Park to apply for funding of up to 50 per cent for projects within its section of the park.
Discussing the exciting announcement, Leader of the Opposition, Vincent Tarzia said that he is looking forward to contributing to the delivery of a re-imagined Linear Park if elected in 2026.
“Linear Park is already an incredible environmental and recreational treasure for South Australians and visitors alike - funding like this will allow local councils to take these open spaces to the next level,” Mr Tarzia said.
“Examples of improvements that will be eligible for funding include better lighting along the walking and cycling paths, creating locations for coffee carts, installing more community barbeques, drinking fountains and toilets, and building nature playgrounds for children.
“The people of South Australia deserve access to safe, open spaces that are family friendly and enhance community collaboration. This funding commitment will allow these exciting ideas to become a reality for local councils and the community members who utilise these spaces.”
Environmental enhancements will also be supported through this fund to improve the health of the River Torrens, its tributaries and its riverbank. This will support the longer-term objective of re-introducing native species into the river system, like the platypus.
“Linear Park, while it is beautiful, it is also underutilised and in need of further investment,” Federal Member for Sturt, James Stevens said.
“The Linear Park Connection Project will protect and transform this precious open space.
“This investment will significantly improve the amenity of Linear Park and the River Torrens while protecting and enhancing its wild, natural state for future generations.”
State Liberal Candidate for Dunstan, Dr Anna Finizio added that this is an opportunity to transform Linear Park for her community.
“Linear Park is enjoyed by residents and community groups across Dunstan, this funding is going to be transformational,” Dr Finizio said.
“My community is passionate about its local environment and greenspace. While Labor continues to encroach on greenspaces like our Park Lands, we are investing in preserving and enhancing Linear Park so my community can continue to enjoy the natural environment for generations to come.
“We are an active community, with Linear Park being utilised by cyclists, runners and walkers. This funding can be used to make Linear Park more accessible for recreational activities and safer with measures like additional lighting.
“I am delighted to deliver this for my community.”