About this innovation challenge
Quality green, open and public spaces are important to everyone. Such spaces form the heart of our communities.
They can include:
- free parks
- gardens and sports fields
- walkable shady streets
- libraries
- museums
- galleries.
It is important that public spaces are inclusive, so everyone can enjoy them. Research shows that women and girls do not always feel completely safe and comfortable in public spaces, because they worry about crime and harassment.
Challenge statement
In this Smart City Innovation Challenge, we asked the emerging technology sector:
How might we use technology to help make public spaces feel safer and more comfortable for women and girls?
Status
This challenge is currently underway. In 2023, the University of Newcastle was awarded $1 million to develop a proof of concept of their solution. The team is installing digital display structures ('Pennies') in public spaces.
These will:
- provide interactive experiences
- display information about the local area, like upcoming events
- gather data
- help us understand and improve perceptions of safety for women, girls and gender diverse people.
The proof-of-concept phase will continue until the end of June 2024.