Released 14/06/2025 - Joint media release
The ACT Government is investing in more than $15 million over four years in wide-ranging suburban infrastructure projects in central Canberra, including improved access to health services, better community facilities, more travel options, upgrades for local shops, and better services locals rely on every day.
This investment is part of the ACT Government’s commitment to renew our city, with upgrades that support growing neighbourhoods, better connect local communities, and make Canberra more inclusive and vibrant.
2025-26 Budget initiatives in central Canberra include:
Shop and local centre improvements:
- Upgrades at the Griffith local shops
Better public amenities:
- New toilet facilities at Red Hill and Downer shops.
Sport and recreation upgrades:
- Griffith, Ainslie and Reid will benefit from female-friendly changeroom upgrades, part of Territory-wide investment in inclusive sports facilities.
Upgrades to community infrastructure and public spaces:
- An inner south dog park feasibility study
- Improvements to footpaths including City Walk lighting upgrades to improve safety and visibility.
- Stormwater upgrades at Dickson Shops.
- Concept design masterplan to renew the City Hill park.
Also in central Canberra we are improving access to local healthcare options with a new Health Centre for the Inner South in Griffith, as part of our Territory-wide investment into local community health
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the investments will deliver practical improvements in areas residents use and value most.
“Central Canberra is home to some of our most utilised cultural, civic and retail spaces,” the Chief Minister said.
“This Budget invests in safer, more accessible streets, better public spaces and renewed community infrastructure, making it easier to enjoy everything our city centre and nearby neighbourhoods have to offer.”
Treasurer Chris Steel said the 2025–26 ACT Budget reflects Labor’s values and priorities.
“We are investing in infrastructure that supports daily life, better footpaths and lighting, improved shopping precincts and safer crossings, while also planning for the city’s long-term growth,” Minister Steel said.
“These are projects that support local jobs, enhance liveability, and help create a more connected Canberra.”
The ACT Government is also investing in planning and feasibility work to support the delivery of a new Health Centre in Griffith.
“We’re committed to delivering high-quality, accessible health services close to home for all Canberrans,” said Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith.
“The new facility in Griffith will help meet the growing health needs of Inner South residents, and this Budget takes the next step by progressing the planning work needed.”
“We are supporting a progressive, lively, and equitable Canberra, where residents have access to the services they need. As a local Member for Kurrajong, I am looking forward to seeing this work completed.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Chris Steel, MLA | Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases