City Renewal commissioned a place-based audit in December 2024 to better understand how anti-social behaviour affects public events and place activation, and to inform programming for the delivery of our initiatives as well as the safety of staff, partners and the community.
The audit, which took place between December 2024 and February 2025 by our place management service provider Dionysus, was an observational study in key locations, using trained personnel to identify safety, security and operational risks. It focused on patterns and impacts of behaviour in public spaces, rather than crime data, to inform future planning and delivery of place‑based initiatives.
Our city centre is a great destination to hold community events that support local businesses and bring people together. We also want to ensure these activities are safe, inclusive and well-managed, so everyone can participate in them with confidence.
Since the audit, City Renewal has continued investing in city activation and public realm improvements. This includes lighting and safety upgrades in City Walk, Petrie Plaza and Garema Place. The current stage of City Walk improvements are due to open mid-year.
The city has also hosted successful events such as Winter in the City, Wonderful World and La Fiesta, supported by ongoing cleaning and greening programs.
City Renewal recognises that issues such as anti‑social behaviour, homelessness and vandalism are complex and require a coordinated, whole‑of‑government response. This work has taken place alongside strong collaboration with ACT Policing as well as Health and Community Services to support vulnerable populations and improve perceptions of safety in the City Centre.
We remain committed to creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming City Centre for everyone.
Read the report and its findings.
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.
