FAQs

A community garden is a space to grow plants, vegetables and flowers. Community gardening is a public, environmentally friendly and not-for-profit activity. It provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded people and share information about gardening. Community gardens can be situated on public land owned or managed by Council. Suitable locations include parks, reserves, open spaces and community centres. 

Community Gardens are not-for profit and are operated by members of the community by way of an established incorporated association. The incorporated association is formed at the outset and roles and responsibilities are clearly defined relating to management, operation and maintenance of the gardens.

Any costs associated with the ongoing operation of the community garden are funded by the community incorporated association. There may be additional fees included with the establishment of the licence for community gardens. 

To find out more and submit an enquiry form please visit the Community Gardens webpage on the council website.

Verge gardens, otherwise known as ‘nature strips’, differ from community gardens. They refer to plantings on public land situated on the street verge, which are maintained by residents or business operators. For more information please visit the Sutherland Shire Council website

To be able to enter into the agreement with Council you must be a legal entity.  An incorporation has several advantages for members including being eligible for grant funding and limiting personal liability for its members.

There are around nine community gardens in Sutherland Shire. Visit Community Gardens Australia to locate them.

Yes! We have five on Council land, three of whom welcome new members. These include: 

•  Grays Point Garden Community, Grays Point 
• Gymea Community Aid & Information Service, Gymea 
• Nerang Road Community Garden, Cronulla 

 There are several other community gardens that welcome new members that are on non-Council land.  Visit Community Gardens Australia to locate them.

The incorporated association is liable for all public utility charges including the cost of installing same (i.e. taps). Grant funding may be available through Council and through State Government.

We recommend choosing a secure location with off-street parking, lighting and passive surveillance.

Entering into a licence agreement gives the community garden time to establish and grow its membership with the peace of mind that they can use the space for five years. It also ensures that the community garden adheres to the conditions placed on it by Council.