Released 08/12/2025
As the end of the year fast approaches, Canberrans are reminded that Access Canberra will have different operating hours over the festive season.
- Belconnen, Gungahlin, Woden and Tuggeranong Service Centres and the Dickson Specialised Centre will close at 5pm, Tuesday 23 December 2025 and reopen at 9am, Monday 5 January 2026.
- Hume Motor Vehicle Inspection Station will close at 2pm, Wednesday 24 December 2025 and reopen at 8am, Monday 5 January 2026. Vehicle inspections only, by appointment.
- Mitchell Specialised Centre (Land, Planning and Building Services) is closed for an extended period due to planned renovations and will be closed from 13 October until 27 February 2026.
- All Libraries ACT branches will close at 5:30pm, Tuesday 23 December 2025 and reopen at 10am, Monday 5 January 2026. Summer operating hours are available on the Libraries ACT website.
The Access Canberra Contact Centre (13 22 81) also has changed arrangements this holiday period. More information on the Access Canberra website (www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au).
Access Canberra Executive Branch Manager Emily Springett encouraged Canberrans to plan ahead – Service Centres will be busy as the year draws to a close.
“Remember you don’t need to visit a Service Centre to complete most Access Canberra transactions,” Ms Springett said.
“You can avoid the festive crowds and head online or call us on 13 22 81. Our online services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – so you can even complete your transactions while enjoying time away.”
In most cases, the only transactions that require an in-person visit to a Service Centre are those needing a photo, such as a driver’s licence, proof of identity, or a Working with Vulnerable People card.
If you do need to visit a Service Centre, you can check the Access Canberra website for current wait times or book at appointment in advance.
Ms Springett reminded the community to show kindness and respect to staff during this peak period.
“The end of the year can be a busy and sometimes stressful time for many in our community,” Ms Springett said.
“Our teams are here to help you with your transactions, and we appreciate your patience and respect.
“I’d like to wish all Canberrans a safe and relaxing festive season. We look forward to supporting you again in 2026.”
Access Canberra Customer Service - a year in review - 2025:
- More than 260,000 visits to an Access Canberra Service Centre, and more than 400,000 transactions completed
- 8 minutes and 50 seconds = the average wait time for a Service Centre visit
- More than 15,000 Canberrans booked and attended an appointment at a Service Centre
- More than 400,000 calls to the Contact Centre (13 22 81) in 2025, with an average wait time of 3 minutes and 4 seconds
- More than 1.5 million transactions completed online via accesscanberra.act.gov.au
- Introduced Auslan interpreting services at Access Canberra Service Centres, joining other accessibility initiatives including Hidden Disability Sunflower, Quiet Hour and bookable appointments.
- Statement ends -
Access Canberra | Media Releases
«ACT Government Media Releases | «Directorate Media Releases