Multiple public facilities have been vandalised and lit on fire in the past month, prompting the government to call for witnesses to the attacks.
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An apparent spate of vandalism spread across the capital also reached Hughes this week, when a statue was stolen by someone by chopping it away at the legs.
Last week someone lit a fire inside the public toilets at Yerrabi Pond District Park. There was also another arson attack at the pond and one at Tuggeranong town park, according to Territory and Municipal Services.
Earlier in May, a bin was set on fire inside the snake house at the playground at John Knight Park, causing damage to the paint and rubber surfaces.
The playground was vandalised again when the rubber matting was lit on fire and names carved into the ground surface, Fleur Flanery, director of city services said.
Ms Flanery said it was frustrating to see what appeared to be planned attacks.
"Vandalism prevents the community from enjoying our public facilities and is a burden on the ACT Government budget. It means resources need to be directed away from other important services.
"In addition to the cost of repairs, there are often ongoing costs when the replacement or redesign needs to be changed in an effort to mitigate further damage.
Ms Flanery said playground inspectors estimate that 90 per cent of all repairs undertaken at playgrounds are a result of vandalism, equating to a cost of about $120,000 per year.
"It's disappointing that despite the time and money put into providing quality public facilities the community can't make use of them in full because of vandalism," she said.
"Probably the most frustrating examples are when the destruction of the equipment is 'planned' and not just random acts."
People who witness or are aware of vandalism should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report it to www.act.gov.au/fixmystreet
