The Hon Kristy McBain MP
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
Andrew Barr MLA
ACT Chief Minister
Acton Waterfront Park gifted new Ngunnawal name
As part of the Albanese and Barr Labor Governments’ ongoing commitment to reconciliation and recognition of First Nations culture in the nation’s capital, the future public park at the Acton Waterfront will be known as Ngamawari.
Presented to the ACT Government by local Ngunnawal representatives at a special ceremony today, Ngamawari – which means ‘cave place’ in Ngunnawal language – recognises the cultural significance of the limestone caves flooded during the creation of Lake Burley Griffin.
The name acknowledges these sites and the important role they played for shelter and a meeting place along the Molonglo River.
The official naming comes after the National Capital Authority granted Works Approval for the new park, following significant public consultation.
The ACT Government will undertake a public tender process for construction of the park’s early works in 2024.
It is expected the temporary park will open to the public in 2025-26, followed by the permanent park in 2028.
In addition to this, the National Capital Authority will deliver a new pedestrian path leading to the National Museum of Australia, after procuring master plan proposals for the path.
The existing Acton Waterfront Boardwalk recently won the National Civil Infrastructure Award (over $25M) at the MBA Construction Excellence Awards in Perth.
Both Governments are committed to transforming the Acton Waterfront for all Canberrans and visitors to enjoy.
