02 Apr 2026

Ballast Point Park

Ballast Point Park on Wangal Country is a 2.6‑hectare harbourside space featuring foreshore walks, picnic areas, harbour views and historic industrial remnants. The Ballast Point Park Management Plan and appendices outline how this culturally significant site is protected and managed.
Ballast Point Park

Ballast Point Park Dog Off-Leash area coming in May 2026

A dog off‑leash area at Ballast Point Park is being introduced to provide a continuous off-leash connection along the foreshore to Mort Bay Park. This change balances a welcoming space for responsible dog owners while protecting wildlife and creating a safe environment for all.

What’s changing
  • An off‑leash area will be introduced in the lower section of the park from May 2026
  • Designated wildlife protection zones
  • Other areas of the park will remain on‑leash
  • New signage, dog amenities and ranger patrols will support the change
  • Fines may be issued for non-compliance

Uncover the Wildlife of Ballast Point Park

We’ve partnered with experts from Botanic Gardens of Sydney to deepen our understanding of the plants and habitats that make Ballast Point Park such a unique harbourside landscape. By gathering on‑the‑ground observations, we’re building a clearer picture of the park’s ecology—knowledge that helps guide its care now and into the future, and further inform the Ballast Point Park Management Plan.

Ballast Point Park Management Plan

Placemaking NSW has developed the Ballast Point Park Management Plan to guide the ongoing operation and management of Ballast Point Park to preserve its natural beauty, rich heritage, and leafy recreation spaces.  

Stage 1

In 2024, we invited the community to share their feedback on what they love about Ballast Point Park, how they use it, and any elements that need improvement.  

Over 500 people shared feedback, ideas and values that resonated consistently and strongly throughout the consultation period. While most Park users are satisfied with the Park’s current operations and management, there are always improvements that can be made and opportunities to explore.  

Placemaking NSW is committed to continuous improvement and has listened to the many ideas shared by the community as well as research undertaken to inform the draft Management Plan. 

Stage 2

Taking into consideration the valuable feedback received from the community, Placemaking NSW has prepared a draft Management Plan.  

Specialist advice in areas of urban ecology, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultural heritage was sought to ensure the Plan is informed, balanced, and respectful of the Park’s unique environmental and cultural context. 

Stage 3

The draft Management Plan was on public exhibition from 9 April to 25 May 2025. Placemaking NSW has reviewed all submissions received and finalised the Plan to reflect community feedback.

View the Ballast Point Park Management Plan and supporting appendices:

Ballast Point Park Venue Hire

Ballast Point Park is a 2.6-hectare site dedicated to passive recreation. It contains areas for picnicking and walking along the foreshore as well as spaces to enjoy the spectacular views and historic remains from when the area was originally one of Sydney's major oil distribution sites. 

Images: Brett Boardman