Extreme heat is the biggest killer of natural disasters in Australia, exceeding that for any other environmental disaster combined, including floods, storms, bushfires and cyclones.
While high temperatures pose risks for everyone, some members of our Community are far more vulnerable. Older residents, people with chronic health conditions or disabilities, young families, and those unable to afford air‑conditioning or leave hot homes face the greatest danger.
For Campbelltown City Council (SA), this was not acceptable. In a modern, connected Community, no one should be left to endure dangerous heat alone.
That belief led to the creation of the Cool Spaces program, which has now supported local residents through the past three summers, beginning in 2023/2024.
When a heatwave is declared, designated air‑conditioned venues across the City are “activated” as Cool Spaces. Activation includes extended opening hours until 8pm, transport assistance, cool water, free WiFi, accessible facilities, device‑charging stations, activities, and, perhaps most importantly, a welcoming place to connect with others.
One resident who used the service last summer said the program made a real difference: “Thank you very much for the option. I live alone and am often ‘out and about’ but stayedhome in the heat. A 6pm visit to the library (Sat and Sun) was a welcome break, a cooler venue, and a delight to see so many other people.”
Mayor Jill Whittaker said the program is becoming more vital each year
“Our summers are getting hotter and heat is more dangerous as people resist putting air conditioners on because of the price of electricity. Cool Council Spaces helps keep vulnerable people safer through the heat of the day.”
The success of Campbelltown City Council’s Cool Spaces program has not gone unnoticed, having won several awards in 2024, including the Resilient Australia Award. The model has since inspired similar programs now being rolled out across South Australia.
