Canberra’s population is expected to reach 500,000 people in 2027, marking an important milestone in the city’s growth.
As Canberra continues to grow, the ACT Labor Government is focused on delivering the homes, infrastructure, services and economic opportunities needed to support a larger city and maintain the quality of life Canberrans value.
Over recent decades, Canberra has grown into one of Australia’s most educated and innovative cities. This growth has been supported by sustained investment in transport, health, education and community infrastructure.
The Government’s priorities for the next two years are focused on ensuring Canberra’s growth is planned, sustainable and inclusive, while delivering on commitments made at the 2024 election.
Key priorities include:
- Delivering a once-in-a-generation investment in housing to enable 30,000 new homes by the end of 2030 focusing on housing in well-located areas close, to transport, jobs, services and amenities.
- Investing in health, education and community services, including progressing a new northside hospital and building and upgrading public schools across Canberra.
- Enhancing the transport network, including public transport, active travel and road upgrades, with Light Rail Stage 2A under construction and on track to begin operating in 2028.
- Growing Canberra’s economy by supporting innovation, strengthening pathways from education to employment and creating more high-quality jobs.
- Attracting investment and industry growth to further cement Canberra’s position as Australia’s talent capital.
- Leading the nation on climate action by delivering the next phase of the ACT Climate Action Strategy.
- Delivering major cultural and community infrastructure, including the new lyric theatre, progressing the design of a new National Convention and Entertainment Centre, and starting construction on the new Canberra Aquatic Centre.
Projects taking shape across Canberra
Canberrans will continue to see significant investment in the infrastructure and services that support daily life across the city.
Projects being delivered or progressed over the next few years include the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre and Inner South Health Centre, the second college in Gungahlin, the new Whitlam and Strathnairn schools, upgrades at Telopea Park School, Majura Primary School and Narrabundah College, and major transport projects including the Molonglo River Bridge, Monaro Highway upgrades, William Hovell Drive improvements and the Athllon Drive duplication.
Communities will also benefit from local investments, including upgrades to group and local shopping centres, improvements to playgrounds and public spaces, upgrades to the Dickson Group Centre, delivery of Ngamawari Park, and improved sporting facilities in Throsby, Stromlo and Phillip.
These projects reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring Canberra’s growth is supported by the infrastructure and services needed for the future.
The ACT Government will also continue to work with the Commonwealth to deliver practical outcomes that support Canberra’s growth and meet the needs of the community.
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister Andrew Barr:
“Reaching a population of 500,000 people is an important milestone in Canberra’s development.
“Population growth brings opportunities, but it also requires careful planning and investment.
“Our focus over the next two years is on delivering the commitments we’ve made and ensuring Canberra has the housing, transport, health services and schools needed to support a growing community.
“By planning ahead and investing for the long term, we can maintain Canberra’s quality of life while creating new opportunities for current and future generations.”
