Sydney Building.
The Sydney and Melbourne Buildings have a special place in the hearts of Canberrans. The heritage-listed buildings showcase historical architecture and are an integral part of Canberra’s cityscape.
Constructed between 1926 and 1946, the buildings were designed as the city's premier 'retail trader's block'. The buildings defined the early character of Civic and continue to contribute to the experience of Civic today.
The buildings have a unique ownership structure in that they are privately owned by many owners, each responsible for their own property. There is no single body responsible for maintaining the buildings. As a result of this large and diverse ownership structure, there are significant challenges in achieving a uniform approach to the maintenance and appearance of the buildings.
We recognise the importance of these buildings and are working with the building owners and businesses to support their revitalisation.
Delivered through a coordinated program supported by the ACT Government, the works were undertaken by individual building owners to restore the condition of their façades and create a consistent, high-quality appearance across the buildings.
Repainting was carried out using a colour scheme reflective of the buildings’ historic character, as outlined in the Conservation Management Plan. Each building owner remains responsible for maintaining their façade in good condition and in accordance with the approved colour scheme.
The ACT Government contributed $4.2 million to support the façade repainting works, recognising the significance of the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings and the importance of maintaining their heritage status within the City Centre.
The completed works represent an important step in conserving these landmark heritage buildings and strengthening the City Centre as a welcoming and well‑maintained civic space.
Work has finished on upgrades to Verity and Odgers Lanes in the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings.
The upgrades will pave the way for more daytime and night-time activities and opportunities for businesses to trade in the lanes, host events, and provide spaces for the community to enjoy over the coming decades.
Verity Lane.
The City Renewal Authority developed a Conservation Management Plan on behalf of Sydney and Melbourne building owners with the aim of assisting them with the continued conservation and revitalisation of the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings.
To support building owners and property managers in the ongoing care and maintenance of their façades, the following documents are provided as practical reference materials. These resources should be consulted when planning future façade maintenance, cleaning, repainting or repair works.
Sydney and Melbourne Buildings’ Façade Maintenance: A Guide for Building Owners
This guide provides practical advice on routine façade maintenance, cleaning and graffiti removal, approved paint products and colours, and approval requirements. It is intended to support building owners in maintaining the upkeep and presentation of their buildings’ façades following the completion of the repainting program.
Revitalisation Plan – Façade Painting
The approved Revitalisation Plan establishes the approved colour scheme and principles guiding façade painting works for the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings. This document remains the reference point for any future façade painting works.
Sydney and Melbourne Buildings – Facade Condition Report
This report outlines the general condition of the buildings’ façades before repainting works were undertaken. It highlights common defects, drainage and water‑ingress issues, and provides heritage advice regarding repairs, painting and maintenance to help owners and property managers plan and undertake ongoing façade care.
The report is intended to be read together with each owner’s individual Façade Condition Assessment, which provides building‑specific findings, recommendations and drawings.
Sydney and Melbourne Buildings – Paint Specification (Dulux)
The paint specification outlines the approved paint systems, products and finishes used for the façade restoration program. Owners, property managers and contractors should refer to this document when undertaking repainting works, touch‑ups or graffiti removal to ensure consistency with the completed façade restoration works.
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.