Save the Bega Inclusion Hub: Protect PlayAbility’s 31–35 Parker Street Facility
Petitioner:
Ms Holly Suitor-Fogarty
| Member:
Holland, Michael
| No. of Signatories:
517
| Date closed:
03/11/2025
To the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly,
The petition of the citizens of New South Wales brings to the attention of the House the urgent need to protect the PlayAbility Inclusion Hub at 31–35 Parker Street, Bega.
For over 40 years, PlayAbility Inc had delivered community-based early intervention and family support services to children and families across the Bega Valley and surrounding regions. Its programs have included inclusive playgroups, the Mobile Toy Library Truck, parent education and support initiatives, and access to multidisciplinary therapies such as developmental supports, psychology, and speech pathology for children with disabilities and developmental delays.
The purpose-built Inclusion Hub, officially opened on 4 October 2023, was funded through Bushfire Recovery grants to help the community rebuild after the 2019–20 fires. It was designed as a safe, inclusive, and accessible space for families to connect, heal, and receive essential supports locally.
Following the liquidation of PlayAbility Inc, this critical community asset is at risk of being sold by the liquidators on the open market, rather than being returned to local not-for-profit organisations that could continue delivering vital community-based early intervention and family support services.
The undersigned petitioners, therefore, ask the Legislative Assembly to call on the Government to:
• Investigate the PlayAbility liquidation process and proposed asset disposal.
• Ensure the 31–35 Parker Street Hub remains dedicated to community-based, not-for-profit organisations;
• Support the NSW Government and Bega Valley Shire Council to secure community ownership or protective heritage status for the Hub.
