$200 million funding announced to progress Canberra’s new Aquatic Centre and Convention & Entertainment Precinct

The ACT and Federal Governments have partnered in a funding commitment of $200 million to begin delivering Canberra’s new Aquatic Centre and Convention & Entertainment Precinct.  

This includes $31.1 million for planning and detailed design work for the Convention and Entertainment Precinct, progressing it to construction readiness, and $68.9 million for the design and construction of a modern aquatic centre in Commonwealth Park. The Federal Government’s $100 million investment will be matched by the ACT Government across this, and future, Territory Budgets.

Canberra’s existing convention centre is at capacity and unable to meet future demand. A new, larger facility will allow Canberra to host more summits, conferences, entertainment and sporting events, supporting the ACT’s visitor economy and growing jobs in tourism, hospitality and construction.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr noted “the new Canberra Aquatic Centre in Commonwealth Park, located next to the new light rail stops on Commonwealth Avenue, will provide a modern aquatic facility for the Territory and bring more people into the park.

“It also unlocks the land needed to deliver the Convention and Entertainment Precinct, with a larger convention centre and an integrated 8,000 seat Entertainment Centre for live music, entertainment, and indoor sporting events.

“This precinct will enable Canberra’s place on the live music touring circuit and as a destination for business events, growing our economy and creating more jobs.

The Government is also making major investments in Canberra’s arts and cultural life. The Budget includes support for the delivery of the new Canberra Lyric Theatre that will enhance the Canberra Theatre Centre and attract more productions and touring shows to the capital.

The Property Council of Australia welcomed the funding announcement with Property Council ACT & Capital Region Executive Director Ashlee Berry advising "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."

Image: Canberra's ageing Olympic Pool in Civic