Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy untethered play time with their furry friends both before and after work from 6am to 10am in the morning and from 4pm to 7.30pm in the afternoon.

The Harbourside park is a popular spot for residents, workers and visitors alike offering a slice of green open space in the heart of Sydney.

Dogs can use the park at all times but will need to be on-leash outside the designated hours to help balance park use for everyone.

Hickson park is conveniently located near the new residential buildings at Barangaroo Central, and a short walk from the heritage area of Millers Point.

Hickson Park has a large open lawn, native trees and park furniture which offers locals and visitors opportunities for gathering and passive recreation all year round.

If the trial is successful, the NSW Government will explore options for landscaping to provide natural barriers around the park without fences.

The trial started on Friday, 6 March 2026 and will run until Monday, 8 June 2026.

Observatory Hill Park at Millers Point is another option for dog owners. It is a designated off leash park for dogs where dogs can play and socialise without being restrained by a leash.

This is another example of the Minns Labor Government building better communities right across NSW.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully said:

“Delivering more homes in Barangaroo means we’ve also seen an increase in furry friends and apartment living means local parks like Hickson Park is the backyard for these dogs and the wider community.

“This off-leash trial will give residents and their dogs a place to find community, play and get rid of excess energy.”

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich said:

“Companion animals are increasingly becoming a part of the lives of of inner-city families and residents.

“Leash-free parks, like Hickson Park, bring dogs and the community together to enjoy open space in our great global city.”