Recreation and culture is the function of providing opportunities and facilities for members of the community for leisure time activities and cultural enrichment. Community facilities and educational programs including swimming and water safety training, school vacation activity centres and training of elite athletes are part of this function. The provision and management of major sporting facilities (including racecourses) and regulation of some sporting activities are also included.

Culture encompasses the performing arts in addition to archives, libraries, art galleries and museums. It also includes encouraging indigenous people and those of ethnic and religious minorities to maintain traditional customs.

This function also includes the planning and organisation of major national and state commemorative and celebratory events, and the organising of, or participation in, international events.