A family-friendly future for Docklands: the moment is now

Docklands has long been known for its modern high-rises, waterfront views, and entertainment precinct. But what about families?

In recent times, more and more parents have made the decision to raise their children here, lured by the lifestyle, walkability, and proximity to the city. Yet, while Docklands has plenty of potential to be a truly family-friendly neighbourhood, it still doesn’t have the required infrastructure to support its growing community.

One of the biggest challenges for families in Docklands is access to education. Docklands Primary School, which opened in 2021, was a huge win for the neighbourhood. But in just two years, it reached its 525-student capacity.

The Department of Education has admitted that “strong demand has exceeded forecasted needs for Docklands PS.” To address these capacity issues, a temporary campus was opened at The District on March 26, 2024.

While this is a temporary solution, it highlights a critical infrastructure gap. Docklands needs a complete educational master plan – one that includes expanding primary school facilities and establishing a dedicated high school, so families aren’t forced to leave the area when their children get older.

Beyond education, Docklands needs investment in family-friendly infrastructure. Playgrounds and green spaces should be a top priority, giving kids safe places to run, climb, and explore. While the area offers stunning waterfront views, it needs more protected recreational areas that put family safety first.

Docklands has fantastic wide boulevards and extensive walking paths, however, these vast open spaces along the waterfront can sometimes feel exposed and unwelcoming, particularly in harsh weather. Urban design improvements could include more wind-breaking features, strategically placed vegetation or artificial canopies for shade and weather protection, and “pocket parks” with seating areas to create human-scale gathering spaces.

These elements would make the expansive waterfront promenades more inviting for families (and everyone else) throughout the year, transforming these impressive but sometimes barren areas into lively community spaces. In fact, we already have a few examples. Just pass by Monument Park on any given weekday after 6pm to see how families are gathering.

Public toilets and baby-change facilities should also be easy to access, not an afterthought. And we need more cultural and community events designed specifically for children and young families to bring the neighbourhood together.

Local businesses can also play a crucial role in making Docklands more welcoming to families. More child-friendly cafes and restaurants with play areas, co-working spaces that accommodate parents with on-site childcare, and entertainment venues with options for kids would make a world of difference. This is starting to become a reality with the likes of Saboteurs at The District.

Businesses that embrace family-friendly practices aren’t just providing a service – they’re making a smart economic choice. Family consumers tend to be more loyal, spend more per visit, and generate valuable word-of-mouth marketing.

Imagine a Docklands where businesses actively cater to families – creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that encourages people to stay and invest in the community for the long term. This isn’t just good for families; it’s good for business.

Parents and residents of the community (such as myself!) have also been actively lobbying for a long-term campus solution and a new secondary school in Docklands. Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Nick Reece has already publicly identified the need for a high school in Docklands as “the next big project”. The community now wishes to see concrete action and lobbying from council to deliver on this critical infrastructure need within a clear timeframe.

This is what the future of Docklands should be aiming for. A city precinct that not only houses but welcomes and serves families. And the good news? The foundations are already in place. With the right planning and investment, Docklands can be an example of how high-density, inner-city living can be thriving and family friendly. •

Jamal Hakim is a Docklands resident and former City of Melbourne councillor.