WHO ARE WE
Parks & Leisure Australia (PLA) is the leading industry association for professionals in the sector. We aim to build, serve and develop a strong and united parks and leisure industry in Australia.
WHAT WE DO
We, as the national peak body for ‘The People Behind the Places,’ support our members by providing a range of products and services to meet their individual needs, priorities, and desired levels of support through the provision of training, professional development, research, advocacy, and industry support.
WHY PLA MEMBERSHIP IS IMPORTANT
KEY MEMBER BENEFITS
EVENTS
Take advantage of discounted rates for conferences, events, seminars, and field days while expanding your network and fostering valuable connections.
RESEARCH AND ADVOCACY
Access local and international research and resources through the new PaRC Library. We research best practice and act as the voice for the industry on your behalf.
PLA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE
At PLA, we deeply value the outstanding contributions of 'The People Behind the Places,' who tirelessly work towards creating vibrant, healthy, and inclusive spaces that enrich our society socially, environmentally, and economically. As a valued member, you hold the privilege of submitting or nominating projects for these prestigious awards, ensuring that your initiatives receive the recognition they truly deserve.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
PLA members have the opportunity to apply for our esteemed Certified Parks & Leisure Professional (CPLP) certification. Obtaining membership also grants you access to our CPD tracker. Our CPD tracker helps you log and track your professional development, including a diverse range of opportunities available through PLA events and courses, and the option to submit external professional development for recognition.
JOBS BOARD
We assist our members in accessing rewarding career opportunities within the parks, recreation, and leisure industry. As an employer, you can strategically target your recruitment efforts by posting unlimited complimentary job listings on our PLA Jobs Board, providing direct access to a thriving community of over 15,000 parks and leisure professionals.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
As a PLA member, you have the unique chance to actively shape the parks and leisure industry. Join expert committees, participate in research groups, lead local initiatives through Regional Councils, or influence industry decisions on the National Board. These volunteer opportunities not only allow you to give back but also foster personal and professional growth. Connect with peers, expand your network, and make a lasting impact on the industry's advancement. Your involvement enhances your expertise, enriches your community, and contributes to the industry's success.
AP&L JOURNAL
Enjoy digital access to all past and present AP&L Journals, tailored for professionals engaged in a spectrum of dynamic fields, including community planning, environmental conservation, physical activities, and more! With each digital edition, you'll gain instant access to research, industry trends, and best practices that empower you to make informed decisions.
REDUCED RATES FOR MAGICAL PARK
PLA membership opens the door to exclusive perks, including reduced rates for Magical Park, the cutting-edge augmented reality app that transforms ordinary parks into extraordinary, interactive experiences. With this benefit, you can offer your community an innovative, engaging, and immersive recreational environment while enjoying cost savings. Take advantage of this opportunity to elevate your community offerings, all while optimising your budget. It's just one of the many ways we support our members in enhancing leisure experiences across the industry.
SECTORS WE REPRESENT
Our members are ‘The People Behind the Places’ who work across policy, planning and the provision of assets, services, facilities, programs and research in the parks and leisure sector including:
Community and Urban Planning
• Recreation Planning
• Play and Playspaces
• Open Space
• Landscape Design
• Urban Planning
Parks, Environment, Biodiversity and Conservation
• Parks and Gardens
• Horticulture
• Arboriculture
• Cemeteries
• State and National Parks
• Ecosystems
Sport and Physical Activity
• Health
• Sport Development
• Facility Management
• Outdoor Recreation
• Aquatic Recreation
Tourism, Arts and Interpretation
• Major Events
• Cultural Events
• Interpretation
• Art installations/ Connections
SUPPORTED BY
Research and Academia
• Universities
• TAFE
• Registered Training Organisations
• Other aligned industry associations
Private Sector
• Consulting
• Trade and Suppliers
• Benchmarking
We support our members through the provision of training, professional development, research and advocacy and provide a range of products and services to support you and the industry. Our members are diverse, with individual needs, priorities and desired levels of support.
NOT A PLA MEMBER YET?
Our members are ‘The People Behind the Places’ who work across policy, planning and the provision of assets, services, facilities, programs, and research in the parks and leisure sector. Find out how you can join us and access PLA member benefits today!