The design and management of open spaces, cultural spaces and the public realm needs to consider the needs of children and young people (refer to Planning Priority C6).
The Office of the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People’s NSW Strategic Plan for Children and Young People is the first legislated three-year whole-of-government plan focused on all children and young people aged 0–24 years. It aims to give children and young people opportunities to thrive, get the services they need and have their voice heard.
The Hills and Parramatta local government areas are projected to see the largest increase in people aged 20–24 years across the District between 2016 and 2036 (76 per cent and 65 per cent respectively).
The Central City District provides tertiary and vocational education and training facilities that allow people to gain and refine skills for employment and connect with other people in the community. These include the Western Sydney University campuses in Westmead, Parramatta CBD and Rydalmere, University of Sydney campus in Westmead, and TAFE campuses in Blacktown, Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills, Parramatta, Lidcombe and Granville. TAFEs and universities are employment hubs for knowledge-intensive industries.
State Environmental Planning Policy (Educational Establishments and Child Care Facilities) 2017 recognises the need for schools, TAFEs and university level educational infrastructure with a focus on good design.
Older people
A 183 per cent proportional increase in people aged 85 and over, and a 95 per cent increase in the 65–84 age group, is expected by 2036. This means 16 per cent of the District’s population will be aged 65 or over in 2036, up from 11 per cent in 2016.
Parramatta and The Hills local government areas have the largest projected growth in the 65 to 84 age groups.
More diverse housing types and medium density housing, as well as the design of walkable neighbourhoods, will create opportunities for older people to continue living in their community, where being close to family, friends and established health and support networks improves people's wellbeing2.
Coordinated and additional health, social and aged care services and collaborative responses across government and industry are needed to meet the expected increase in demand for local aged care facilities and respite services, including home care options (with associated visitor parking). This approach will also need to address care for people with specific needs such as those with dementia and the frail aged.
The NSW Ageing Strategy 2016–2020, prepared by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, responds to the opportunities and challenges of the ageing population. This strategy focuses on five priority areas including health and wellbeing, working and retiring, housing choices, getting around and inclusive communities.