Month: October 2025

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Upgrades complete at Lesley’s Place

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory




Upgrades complete at Lesley’s Place – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate

















As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 29/10/2025 – Joint media release

The ACT Government has completed a major refurbishment of Toora Women’s Lesley’s Place, delivering a comfortable and modern residential facility for women undertaking alcohol and other drug (AOD) rehabilitation.

The $800,000 upgrade has transformed the property with functional and quality-of-life improvements to better support women on their recovery journey. 

Key improvements include:

  • A refreshed internal layout to improve practicality for shared living
  • Full repainting inside and out
  • New flooring throughout
  • Zoned reverse-cycle heating and cooling in each of the 10 bedrooms
  • A redesigned kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms, including a new accessible bathroom
  • Enhanced outdoor areas with landscaping and relocated clotheslines for easier access.

Toora Women provides specialist AOD services for vulnerable women in the ACT, including those with children. It provides services including residential rehabilitation, day programs, counselling, and transitional support, and helps women achieve long-term recovery and independence.

The refurbishment was led by the ACT Government and funded through the Commonwealth Government’s Community Health and Hospitals Program, which committed $4.3 million for the expansion and modernisation of local alcohol and other drug residential rehabilitation services across the ACT.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Women and ACT Senator Katy Gallagher:

“This upgrade is about giving women in our community the support and dignity they deserve as they take steps toward healing and recovery.”

“Lesley’s Place has been a safe and trusted space for Canberra women for many years, and these improvements will make a real difference for those rebuilding their lives.”

“The Albanese Government is proud to partner with the ACT Government and fund the refurbishment, as it strengthens services that help women achieve stability, independence, and long-term wellbeing.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith:

“We know that recovery from alcohol and other drug dependence is a deeply personal and often challenging journey. That’s why it’s so important that the spaces where people heal are safe, comfortable, and designed to support their wellbeing.

“The ACT Government is proud to invest in services that make a real difference in people’s lives. Toora’s trauma-informed, gender-specific approach is vital for women facing complex challenges, and these improvements will help ensure they have the best possible chance at long-term recovery.

“We’re committed to providing all Canberrans with access to high-quality care in facilities that reflect the value we place on their health and wellbeing.”

Quotes attributable to Toora Women CEO, Kellie Friend:

“Toora is deeply appreciative of the Commonwealth and ACT Government’s investment in refurbishing Lesley’s Place. We know that the physical space plays a vital role in a woman’s recovery and healing journey. This refurbishment is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s a powerful statement that the women who come to Toora are valued. It’s an investment in them, so they can invest in themselves. Creating a space where women can be with their young children not only strengthens the parent-child bond, but also supports the child’s wellbeing through connection and continuity.”

– Statement ends –

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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Mount Stromlo High School powers up with new battery installation

Source: Australian Capital Territory – State Government

As part of ACT Government’s ‘One Government, One Voice’ program, we are transitioning this website across to our . You can access everything you need through this website while it’s happening.

Released 29/10/2025 – Joint media release

As part of the Big Canberra Battery project, the ACT Government is delivering battery storage systems including a 100 kW behind-the-meter battery at Mount Stromlo High School.

Supporting the Territory’s transition to a net zero emissions and an electrified city, the battery will store excess solar energy generated onsite to help power the school in the evenings and overnight.  This will positively impact the school’s electricity bills and ease pressure on the electricity grid.

The ACT Government has already delivered nine behind-the-meter batteries at government sites across Canberra, including this one at Mount Stromlo High School, and a 75 kW behind-the-meter battery at the ACT Government campus on Canberra Avenue. AGL Energy Solutions was contracted to deliver both batteries.

Learn more about how we’re building a smarter energy system: www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/policy-programs/big-canberra-battery.

Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr

“Battery storage is a key part of our energy transition. As we electrify our city, we need smart, reliable infrastructure to support growing demand from increased rooftop solar, electric vehicles, all-electric homes, and emerging technologies like vehicle-to-grid energy sharing.

“As a key part of the ACT’s energy transition, the Big Canberra Battery project is also creating local jobs in the growing renewable energy sector and generating revenue for the Territory.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, Suzanne Orr

“This new battery is part of a growing network of energy storage being delivered across the ACT to help stabilise the grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and ensure Canberrans continue to enjoy a secure, reliable and affordable 100% renewable electricity supply.

“Behind-the-meter batteries are energy storage systems installed on the customer’s side of the electricity meter. The batteries installed as part of the Big Canberra Battery project are similar to what Canberrans may have already installed at home, but on a much larger scale. The Mt Stromlo High School battery, at 100 kW, is the size of a shipping container.

“This is about future-proofing our electricity system while delivering real benefits to the community. Through this network of batteries we’re lowering energy costs, cutting emissions, and helping to build a more sustainable and resilient city.

Quote attributed to Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry

“Students across Canberra understand the importance of taking action on climate change, and I know from speaking to students and staff here at Mount Stromlo that they are pleased to be a part of the Big Canberra Battery project.

“Money saved on power bills by the installation of these batteries will also be able to be reinvested back into teaching and learning here at the school.”

Quote attributed to AGL Energy Solutions

“AGL is proud to support the ACT Government in its decarbonisation efforts, through the installation of a battery at Mount Stromlo High School. This forms part of our partnership with the ACT government on the Big Canberra Battery initiative, where we are installing three battery sites in Canberra, with this Mt Stromlo High School site featuring a 280kWh, 100kW battery integrated with solar energy solutions.

Partnerships like this demonstrate how AGL can work with government and industry to deliver practical outcomes that advance the energy transition and create sustainable and effective outcomes for customers.’’

– Statement ends –

Andrew Barr, MLA | Yvette Berry, MLA | Suzanne Orr, MLA | Media Releases

«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases

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Address to the Australia China Business Council networking day executive dinner

Source: Australia Government Statements 2

I acknowledge the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people as traditional custodians of the lands of the ACT and region.

China is important to Australia – almost 600,000 jobs in Australia are supported by Australia’s economic relationship with China.

Australia is important to China – in 2024, Australia exported to China almost $105 billion worth of iron ore and concentrates, almost $21 billion worth of natural gas, almost $13 billion worth of education-related travel and over $17 billion worth of agricultural exports with China remaining Australia’s largest market.

It’s a fact the Albanese Government and Labor have understood since Whitlam.

It’s also why we worked so hard to stabilise our trade relationship with China post the election in 2022.

It’s a fact that is understood and represented by the work of the Australia China Business Council (ACBC).

And it’s why we are continuing to grow the economic relationship through the establishment of the Policy Dialogue on Steel Decarbonisation and resumption of the Australia-China Senior Officials Tourism Dialogue.

You will be hearing a lot about what we are doing to continue to grow our future economic ties including in technology, and innovation.

But before we look to the future, I’d like to highlight some previous and current initiatives, a number of which are supported by the National Foundation for Australia-China Relations.

For example, the ACBC China literacy and capability program – helping Australian industry and businesses to navigate China’s evolving opportunities.

I studied Chinese at university and I understand how important language and culture is to doing business in China.

Dairy Australia’s initiative is helping to strategically position Australia’s dairy, horticulture, meat and livestock, wine and seafood industries nationwide, strengthening their sustainable export credentials with China.

The Future Wool Industry Growers delegation visit to China is helping form new relationships with Chinese traders and manufacturers, and advancing Australian wool innovation.

These, and many other stories, showcase the true potential of informed engagement with China in strengthening economic ties and advancing our mutual interests.

As we continue to build upon our economic ties, it’s good to remember that behind our relationship with China, are people, and stories.

One of these is Jill Tang, co-founder of Ladies Who Tech, who travelled to study in Australia from the bustling city of Shanghai, and experienced first-hand the varying approaches to business in Australia and China.

Jill’s ability to look at innovation and entrepreneurship through a multicultural and global view through exposure to Australia and China’s differing approaches to doing business gave her an opportunity to establish, in 2017, a forum championing women’s participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics fields and working with companies across the globe.

China is Australia’s largest trading partner and will remain so for the foreseeable future, a testament to the strong people-to-people links and economic ties that are central to our relationship.

During his recent visit to China, Prime Minister Albanese agreed to continue or expand engagement in trade, tourism, and climate change, including through a general review of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (or ChAFTA) as it approaches its tenth anniversary.

And so, we are looking for ways to pursue engagement, across a range of sectors, including energy, resources and agriculture, and in healthcare, and education while working together to create innovations that meet the challenges of our time.

I commend the Australia-China Business Council on its work and for the Networking Day we have ahead of us.

Thank you.

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From wool trade to arts workshops – Gunning railway station’s 150 years of history

Source: Mental Health Australia

Celebrations will be held at Gunning train station on Sunday 2 November to mark 150 years of railway history, alongside its present role as an arts and community hub.

The station was completed before or soon after the opening of the Goulburn-Gunning section of the Main Southern Line in November 1875.

Now listed on the NSW state heritage register, Gunning Station is one of the best surviving examples of a small late Victorian country station complex.

And at the time it was built, it was the end of the rail line and in its heyday, it was a key location for the transportation of wool.

These days the rail line continues through Gunning and the station is serviced by four NSW TrainLink passenger trains each day.  

In recent years, the station precinct was completely restored, including repairs and upgrades to derelict structures and reinstatement of period features.

The restoration project was funded through the Community Heritage Program of the Transport Asset Manager of NSW (TAM).

The refurbished station is now home to Connect@Gunning Station, an artistic and cultural hub run by Southern Tablelands Arts.

Chief Executive of TAM John Garrard said it is fantastic that new life has been breathed into the historic rail precinct.

“The meticulously planned restoration project was led by a dedicated team from Transport for NSW with the assistance of specialist heritage architects and tradespeople,” he said.

“Great care and precision were taken with reinstating period features including a new decorative verandah built from the 1875 plans, station room signs and replica timber columns to the platform awning,”, Mr Garrad said.

Executive Director of Southern Tablelands Arts Rose Marin said Connect@Gunning Station is the artistic and cultural heart of the community.

“This beautifully restored station is now the venue for a range of arts and cultural events, performances, heritage displays, workshops and meetings, that help promote vibrancy and social connection in Gunning and the wider region,” Ms Marin said.

NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Roger Weeks said passengers use Gunning Station to connect with Melbourne and Griffith train services and they enjoy the quaintness of the revamped station in its picturesque rural setting.

“Steeped in history, the station continues to play an important public transport role today,” Mr Weeks said.

“Importantly, the renovation of Gunning Station a few years ago not only upgraded heritage items but also included improvements to make bathroom facilities and the station more accessible and comfortable for all.”

Gunning Station was an early prototype of a distinctive NSW station design, approved by John Whitton the Engineer in Charge for the NSW Government Railways, and over a hundred other late 1800s stations followed a similar style.

Around 1876 a two-storey Station Master’s residence was constructed adjacent to the station. This still stands and is privately owned.

Other early structures included sheep yards, an enginemen’s rest house (moved to Bowning in 1876), a goods office (moved to Goulburn in 1878), and in 1889, a new ladies’ toilet within the main station building.

When opened, the station also included a refreshment room providing tea and buns for train travellers.

Supported by Transport for NSW and NSW TrainLink, Southern Tablelands Arts has organised a day of festivities for Gunning Station’s 150th birthday from 10am – 3pm on Sunday 2 November.

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366-2025: Unchanged import conditions for prawns

Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

29 October 2025

Who does this notice affect?

Stakeholders with an interest in Australia’s import conditions for prawns.

What has changed?

The department has recently received increased enquiries questioning whether there has been a change in Australia’s import conditions for whole (unpeeled) uncooked prawns.  This notice confirms that Australia’s import conditions for uncooked prawns for human consumption remain unchanged.

Under standard import…

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Dash cam and car audio supplier Connected Audio Visual admits to resale price maintenance

Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

Connected Audio Visual Pty Ltd has admitted to engaging in resale price maintenance. The company did this by communicating that it would not supply retailers who did not agree to terms requiring them to sell products at specified prices.

The ACCC accepted a court enforceable undertaking addressing this conduct.

In April 2025, the technology solutions provider sent emails to 258 retailers proposing changes to certain clauses in their distribution agreements. Connected Audio Visual asked these retailers to agree to advertising certain products online, such as dash cams and subwoofers, at the recommended retail price. Existing retailers who did not respond to the emails had their accounts put on hold and in one instance, when the retailer did not agree, closed.

Under Australia’s competition laws, it is illegal for suppliers to prevent, or attempt to prevent, retailers from advertising or selling goods below a specific price. This conduct is known as resale price maintenance.

Between April and September 2025, in response to Connected Audio Visuals conduct, 178 existing and 31 new retailers entered into agreements containing resale price maintenance clauses with Connected Audio Visual.

“Recommended resale prices are only suggestions, and suppliers are generally prohibited from trying to force distributors to adopt them,” ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said.

“As we have seen in this instance, suppliers often do this by pausing or cancelling accounts with businesses who refuse to comply.”

“We enforce these laws to protect consumers from higher costs, which can happen when retailers are prevented from competing on price,” Mr Keogh said.

“We will continue to take decisive action against companies who flout our competition laws utilising the full suite of enforcement actions available to us.”

The undertaking, which is in effect for three years, requires Connected Audio Visual to remove the clauses of concern from its distribution agreements and price lists and to inform its retailers it has done so. Connected Audio Visual is also required to implement a compliance program to help it comply with the Competition and Consumer Act.

A copy of the undertaking is available at Connected Audio Visual Pty Ltd.

Background

The ACCC first received a complaint about the conduct in April 2025.

In addition to providing entertainment, security and energy management solutions for homes and businesses in NSW, Connected Audio Visual also supplies car audio and dash cam products to independent retailers across the country. It is the exclusive Australian distributor of IROAD and MB Quart products – dash cam and car audio brands respectively.

Connected Audio Visual admits that it engaged in resale price maintenance and cooperated with the ACCC throughout the investigation.

It is illegal for businesses of any size to impose minimum prices for the resale of their goods or services. For example, suppliers must not:

  • set minimum prices in formal policies or agreements;
  • offer retailers a discount if they sell at or above a minimum price;
  • refuse to supply retailers that sell below a minimum price; or
  • punish retailers for selling below a set price, for example, by taking away a discount or sending a warning.

Suppliers can recommend appropriate prices including, for example, by providing a recommended resale price (RRP) list. More information on minimum resale prices can be found on our website.

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10+ ways your local pharmacy can help

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

Local pharmacists play a key role in our health system.

In brief:

  • Pharmacies are one of the most convenient places to get healthcare advice and treatment.
  • Many offer services you may not be aware of.
  • This article lists some ways your local community pharmacy can help you and your family.

Did you know ACT pharmacies can help with much more than just filling prescriptions?

Pharmacies are one of the most convenient places to get healthcare advice and treatment. And many can assist in ways you may not be aware of.

Pharmacists play a key role in our health system, and sticking with a trusted local pharmacy has many benefits.

Read on to find out more about ways your local community pharmacy can help you and your family.

Convenient opening hours

Here in Canberra, we have several community pharmacies that stay open late at night and on weekends.

You can view them using the Health Direct service finder tool.

Quick help for UTIs

If you think you might have a urinary tract infection (UTI) but can’t see your GP, your local community pharmacist might be able to help.

Community pharmacists undergo comprehensive training to ensure safe and effective care for non-pregnant women aged 18–65 with uncomplicated UTIs.

This means your local community pharmacist may be able to provide an assessment and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs. This may include antibiotic supply if clinically necessary.

Not sure if your local community pharmacy offers this? Find out via the Find a Pharmacy website.

Oral contraceptive pill resupply

Some local community pharmacies may be able to resupply the oral contraceptive pill (the pill) without a prescription.

To qualify you must be:

  • a woman or person with a uterus aged 18–49 (inclusive)
  • taking the pill for contraception (birth control).

You must have been prescribed a low-risk oral contraceptive pill continuously for the last two years by a doctor or nurse practitioner.

You can only receive the same type of pill you’ve been prescribed before.

Contact your local community pharmacy to check if they offer this service.

Need help with prescriptions?

If you run out of a regular medication and just can’t get to your doctor, your local community pharmacist might be able to help or direct you to appropriate care.

It’s best to use the same pharmacy regularly. This way they can see your medication history and give you the right advice.

Vaccinations made easy

Pharmacies provide a wide range of vaccinations, including flu, COVID-19, shingles, whooping cough, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, and RSV.

If you’re heading overseas, your local community pharmacist can also help with travel vaccines and essential travel supplies.

Wound care and first aid

Got a cut or scrape? Your pharmacist can:

  • give advice
  • help clean and dress the wound
  • show you how to care for it at home with the right products and dressings.

Medication supply and management

Pharmacists work closely with doctors and other health professionals to make sure your medicines are right for you.

They can also recommend over-the-counter or generic medicines that may save you money.

Some local community pharmacies can organise blister packs to help you take the right medicines at the right time.

Having side effects from medication? Your GP can refer you to your pharmacist for a home medicines review to find better options.

Door-to-door delivery

Too unwell to leave home? Some local community pharmacies may deliver your medications.

Check with your local pharmacy to see if they offer this service. A delivery fee may apply.

Absence from work certificates

If you have a minor illness or injury, your local community pharmacist may be able to issue an absence from work certificate.

Pharmacists can give you a certificate when you’re suffering from minor issues like:

  • a cold or flu
  • allergies or asthma
  • nausea and vomiting.

They may also issue a certificate when you’re caring for a sick family member.

If your illness or injury is beyond a pharmacist’s ability to assess, they will refer you to a doctor or other relevant healthcare professional.

Other helpful services

Many local community pharmacies offer extra services such as:

  • testing and treatment for sleep apnoea
  • weight management support
  • quit smoking support
  • injections for some medicines, such as Vitamin B12
  • mobility aids like walkers, crutches, and moon boots.

Clear communication

If you speak a language other than English, you can still chat with your pharmacist.

They can use the Free Interpreting Service and be connected to a telephone interpreter within a few minutes.

It’s important you can communicate effectively with your local community pharmacist, so they have the information they need to give you accurate advice.

Before you visit

It’s a good idea to call ahead to check if your local community pharmacy provides the service or medication you need.

You can search for pharmacies and make bookings online through the Find a Pharmacy website or the Health Direct service finder tool.

Remember, pharmacies may charge a fee for providing certain services.

Other healthcare options

If you don’t have a GP you can find one using the find-a-health service.

Remember, you can always visit a Walk-in Centre if you have an injury or illness that is not life-threatening.

You can also visit a Walk-in Centre if you have an injury or illness that is not an emergency.

The ACT’s five Walk-in Centres provide free, one-off treatment of non-life threatening injury and illness.

Find out more about our Walk-in Centres.

View other places to get help when it’s not an emergency on the Canberra Health Services website.

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Dickson and Manuka pools reopen with upgrades

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

The upgrades will improve accessibility, sustainability and visitor comfort.

In brief:

  • Dickson and Manuka pools have reopened to the public.
  • Dickson and Manuka pools have been upgraded over winter.
  • The Champions’ Board has returned to Manuka Pool after nearly 70 years.

Dickson and Manuka pools have reopened to the public for the summer.

Over winter the ACT Government delivered major upgrades at both pools.

The upgrades aim to improve accessibility, sustainability and visitor comfort.

Pool upgrades

Dickson Pool upgrades include:

  • a high-efficiency filtration system to improve water clarity, reduce chemical use, and support the pool’s accessible design
  • grounds aeration and reseeding with durable grasses to reduce maintenance and improve resilience to foot traffic
  • improved drainage to lower water and energy consumption
  • a new ventilation system and preparation bench in the cafe.

Manuka pool upgrades include:

  • anti-slip floor treatment in all bathrooms
  • new baby changing tables in both male and female bathrooms
  • improved kiosk ventilation for a cooler and more efficient space for staff
  • New kitchen equipment to improve food and drink service.

The Champions’ Board returned

After being lost for nearly 70 years, the Champions’ Board has been returned to Manuka Pool.

Originally installed in 1931, the board proudly displays the names of local swimming champions.

It was lost in 1955, when the club relocated to Civic Pool. Its whereabouts was unknown for decades, until a newspaper ad sparked a community-wide search.

The board was discovered in an old wares store in a small town in northeast Victoria. It made its way back to Canberra and was temporarily housed at Gungahlin Pool.

This season, the board has been lovingly restored to its prime and has finally returned home, just in time for the Manuka Pool’s 95th birthday.

For more information or to get pool passes head to the Manuka Pool and Dickson Pool websites.

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Cr Paul Miles elected as City of Wanneroo Deputy Mayor

Source: Government of Western Australia

Published Tuesday, 28th October 2025

The City of Wanneroo is pleased to announce that Cr Paul Miles, representing Central-East Ward, has been elected as Deputy Mayor for a two-year term.

Cr Paul Miles was officially sworn in at a Special Council Meeting held on Tuesday 28 October.

Mayor Linda Aitken congratulated Cr Paul Miles on his appointment to the role. 

“We are very proud to have Cr Paul Miles take on the role of Deputy Mayor,” she said.

“Cr Miles is a valued and committed representative of the City, recognised for their strong advocacy on key community issues.

“I look forward to working alongside Cr Paul Miles and the Council team to continue progressing the City’s priorities and supporting our growing community.

“I would also like to thank Cr James Rowe for his contribution as Deputy Mayor over the past two years and for continuing to make a positive impact as a South Ward Councillor.”

More articles in the news archive.

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All you need to know about the Canberra Aquatic Centre

Source: Government of Australia Capital Territory

Canberrans will be able to enjoy the facility all year round.

In brief:

  • The ACT Government is planning a new aquatic centre in Commonwealth Park.
  • You can share your feedback to shape early designs until 14 November.
  • This article addresses many key questions you may have about the facility.

The Canberra Aquatic Centre will be built in the heart of Commonwealth Park.

It will feature a 50-metre lap pool, splash play areas and more.

The new centre will replace the aging Canberra Olympic Pool. It will also help meet the needs of a growing Canberra.

This is a joint project of the ACT and Australian Governments.

The planned Commonwealth Park location is conveniently close to bus stops and future light rail stops.

This landmark facility will be designed with Canberra’s community in mind. It will be a place for everyone, including:

  • keen swimmers
  • parents and young kids
  • older adults who like to stay active
  • those who simply enjoy being in the water.

In early 2025, the National Capital Authority (NCA) invited the community to give feedback on the Commonwealth Park Concept Vision 2025.

This highlighted the opportunity for an iconic aquatic facility to strengthen the park’s connection to water and landscape.

Tell us what you think?

Canberrans can now have their say on features to consider in the project’s design. Consultation is open via the YourSay Conversations website until November 14.

Keen to know more about the project? Read on for answers to some of the most common questions we’ve heard so far.

Why are we building the new Canberra Aquatic Centre in Commonwealth Park?

Canberra’s increasing population requires a modern aquatic centre. It should be an all-weather facility everyone can enjoy.

The Canberra Olympic Pool (Civic Pool) was built in 1955. It has been a beloved part of life in Canberra for almost 70 years. However, it is reaching the end of its life, and a new Canberra Aquatic Centre will provide improved facilities for the community.

What facilities will the new Canberra Aquatic Centre include?

The project is in the early stages of design. We need to balance different priorities, and community needs when deciding how to use the proposed site and available budget.

The minimum scope includes a 50-metre pool and splash-play areas for kids and families.

Community and stakeholder feedback will help guide the design of the new centre. This way it will better reflect the needs and wants of the community.

What will happen to the Canberra Olympic Pool?

The new Canberra Aquatic Centre will replace the Canberra Olympic Pool. The Canberra Olympic Pool will stay open until the new Canberra Aquatic Centre opens. This way, there’s always a pool available in the city.

The Canberra Olympic Pool site is currently being considered for a future Convention and Entertainment Centre Precinct.

Will the new Canberra Aquatic Centre be environmentally sustainable?

The new facility will focus on sustainability. It will use energy-efficient systems, and water wise technology.

While we’re still in the early stages of design, we’re looking at options like solar panels, energy-efficient heating and water-saving features.

How will we use design to create an inclusive place for all?

Inclusivity is a priority, and accessibility is a key part of the design. The facility will be designed to offer convenient access for all levels of mobility.

Accessible, welcoming and inclusive change rooms are also at the heart of the design.

The centre will focus on families and offer safe, easy-to-use facilities. There will be change rooms and safe play areas for children, parents and carers.

Can I visit the new Canberra Aquatic Centre all year round?

Yes, the new Canberra Aquatic Centre is being planned for year-round use.

Indoor facilities are part of the design, so people can swim and stay active even during Canberra’s colder months.

We’re aiming to make the centre comfortable and enjoyable in every season.

Why was Commonwealth Park chosen as the location?

Commonwealth Park is near the City Centre, public transport, famous attractions and landscape setting on the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin. Surrounded by national institutions, the new aquatic centre will reflect design excellence, cultural respect and community pride.

A key design focus is to blend the Canberra Aquatic Centre into the landscape, respecting the beauty of Commonwealth Park.

The National Capital Authority has also marked this area as suitable for an aquatic facility in its Commonwealth Park Concept Vision 2025.

How will I get to the new Canberra Aquatic Centre?

We want everyone to easily reach the new Canberra Aquatic Centre. This includes those using public transport, cycling, walking or driving.

A new light rail stop at Commonwealth Park is being built as part of Light Rail Stage 2A. This will provide an additional public transport option.

There is also access to many rapid and local buses, making visits to the centre more convenient.

Parking is another way we’re designing for easy access, along with safe paths for walking and cycling.

As we plan for the site and budget, we must balance various priorities and community needs. This includes considering parking space available and ways to support active and public transport connections.

We’re also considering how the centre connects to nearby places like the City Centre and Lake Burley Griffin.

How do I share my thoughts on the design?

Visit the YourSay Conversations website before 14 November.

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