Aquatic and Convention Precinct Commitment a Vital Step in Revitalising Canberra: Property Council
The Property Council of Australia has welcomed today's joint ACT and Federal Government announcement of $200 million in funding to progress the new Canberra Aquatic Centre and Convention & Entertainment Precinct in Civic.
Property Council ACT & Capital Region Executive Director Ashlee Berry said the investment was a win for the city and a key advocacy outcome in the lead-up to the ACT Budget.
"This is welcome news for Canberra and a major step forward in our shared ambition to revitalise Civic," Ms Berry said.
"Delivering this infrastructure is about more than new buildings - it's about creating energy and confidence in our CBD, supporting local jobs, and making Civic the beating heart of Canberra again.
"It will help attract more events, more visitors, and more life into the heart of the city - exactly what Canberra needs to thrive."
Ms Berry said the Property Council had been calling for the Budget to prioritise such investment.
"We've long said that if we want a world-class city, we need the infrastructure to match. This commitment from both levels of government is a critical step in making that happen," she said.
"The best thing we can do now is make sure the delivery is on track. Certainty and momentum are what local industry, builders and the broader community need."
Ms Berry said the investment needed to be paired with further actions to bring people back into the city and support businesses impacted by disruption.
"We're calling for practical steps - from Lease Variation Charge reform to support for ground-floor activation and a stronger night-time economy - to help Civic realise its full potential as a vibrant, world-class destination," she said.
"We've put forward clear recommendations in our pre-budget submission, and we'll keep working with Government to turn Civic's momentum into long-term renewal.
"This is a moment to back our city and get on with the build. Let's make it happen," Ms Berry said.
