Published on Wednesday, 12 August 2026 at 6:00:00 AM
The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale in partnership with the State Government and developers, is continuing to invest in local families through major improvements to Bill Hicks Reserve and the launch of its first-ever Children and Families Plan 2026–2031, reinforcing Council's commitment to creating safe, inclusive and connected communities.
Council endorsed funding to deliver improvements at Bill Hicks Reserve, including a new playground, BBQ facilities and additional parking, helping create a vibrant community space for families to enjoy for years to come.
The project is supported by Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones MLA’s State Election commitment in conjunction with the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety providing $175,000, developer contributions above $302,000, and Shire funding of over $101,000.
The upgrades complement the newly adopted Children and Families Plan 2026–2031, which was shaped by more than 300 community surveys and 160 conversations with parents, carers, children and service providers.
The Plan provides a five-year roadmap to support children and families across the Shire through practical initiatives, partnerships and community planning.
The Children and Families Plan is the first dedicated strategy of its kind for Serpentine Jarrahdale, ensuring it reflects the aspirations and priorities of local families.
The five-year Plan focuses on supporting children aged 0 to 11 years through six priority areas utilising the national Nest Wellbeing Framework:
- Healthy
- Material Basics
- Valued, Loved and Safe
- Learning
- Participation
- Identity and Culture
Comments attributable to Shire President Rob Coales:
"As one of Western Australia's fastest-growing communities, we're seeing more young families choosing to call Serpentine Jarrahdale home every year.
"That means we need to continue investing not only in quality parks, playgrounds and community spaces, but also in the long-term planning that supports children and families to thrive.
"Parks like Bill Hicks Reserve play an important role in bringing our community together. These improvements will create an even better space for families to spend time outdoors, connect with one another and enjoy everything our Shire has to offer.
“I would like to thank Hugh Jones for his ongoing advocacy for our community and the State Government’s contribution to projects like Bill Hicks Reserve that continue to make our Shire and attractive place for young people and families to move to and visit.
"Equally, our Children and Families Plan ensures the voices of children and families are reflected in the decisions we make. It provides a clear direction for how we'll work alongside our community and partner organisations to continue building a welcoming, family-friendly Shire where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
“This Plan sets out our roadmap for the years ahead and will help guide us in our approach to accommodate our communities growing needs.
“Together, the Bill Hicks Reserve upgrades and the Children and Families Plan demonstrate Council's ongoing commitment to investing in both the infrastructure and planning needed to support one of Australia's youngest and fastest-growing communities.”
Comments attributable to Member for Darling Range Hugh Jones MLA
“Bill Hicks Reserve is a well-loved and well-used public space in Byford. So, when the community asked me for better park facilities, I made it my priority to deliver.
“I'm proud that my $175,000 election commitment will soon help bring barbecue facilities and much-needed upgrades to Bill Hicks Reserve.
“Upgrades like this create safe and inclusive communities. I’m excited to see this space become an even more vibrant part of our community’s future, and I’m looking forward to hosting a barbecue once the upgrades are complete.”
Back to All News