The Rocks precinct in Sydney will become a safer, more accessible place for women and girls, following a NSW government initiative announced on the eve of International Women’s Day.
As part of the state government’s $30 million Safer Cities project, led by Transport NSW, ministers announced the Women’s Safety Strategy for The Rocks/Tallawoladah, located in Sydney’s CBD.
As the precinct undergoes development in the coming years, the strategy will guide stakeholders to make planning decisions and improve visitor experience for everyone.
NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the government’s announcement aligns perfectly with the 2024 International Women’s Day theme, Count Her In.
“We’re investing in better lighting and signage to make this historic precinct more inclusive for women and girls,” Minister Harrison said.
“Being able to access public spaces is fundamental to women and girls being able to participate in the economy and society. Making spaces safer for women and girls also benefits everyone in the community, allowing them to better enjoy what our cities have to offer.”
The strategy includes specific plans for upgrades in several locations within the precinct. At Unwin’s Courtyard, for example, the government has planned for an upgrade of lighting and improved access and landscaping.
The Nurse’s Walk in The Rocks will also undergo lighting upgrades, with public artworks to be put on display throughout. Signage and lighting will be upgraded at Foundation Park also.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the state’s public spaces should be safe for all to visit and enjoy.
“By taking simple, practical stops we can make spaces safer, more accessible and more enjoyable for everyone,” Minister Scully said.
“Helping more people to feel confident in our cities boosts vibrancy and the 24-hour economy, bringing much-needed life and investment back into Sydney’s entertainment districts.”
As part of Transport NSW’s $30 million Safer Cities project, Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said the plan will bring life to the streets of the precinct to improve safety as people move around at night.
“Women and girls deserve to feel safe in our public spaces, and our Safer Cities program is helping us achieve that goal,” Minister Haylen said.
The NSW Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich is pleased with the announcement and said it will “set the standard” for a safer, more accessible city.
“Cities should be safe places for everyone, but we know that dark and narrow laneways, poorly lit pathways, and lack of wayfinding can be especially worrisome for women and girls,” Greenwich said.
“The delivery of this strategy addresses this concern and sets the standard for a safer Sydney.”
The government’s strategy was informed by feedback from community consultation, as well as data and technical analysis.
Dr Hannah Tonkin, Women’s Safety Commissioner, said the government’s announcement will make huge improvements for women and girls’ safety in The Rocks precinct.
“This work is a fantastic example of collaboration and coordination across government to deliver improved women’s safety outcomes,” Dr Tonkin said.
“The Strategy will help all those involved in the precinct’s urban governance make informed decisions to make The Rocks a safer place for women, girls and the whole community.”
Placemaking NSW was involved in the consultation process in the development of the strategy. Its Chief Executive, Anita Mitchell, said the thorough strategy is backed up by community perceptions on safety, as well as the data collected.
“The Rocks is an iconic heritage precinct where visitors can experience a unique part of Sydney. This strategy is about ensuring those experiences are positive for everyone,” Mitchell said.
“We’re excited this strategy will result in tangible outcomes for The Rocks precinct and other communities.”
PHOTO CREDIT: NSW Government