Artist's impression of the Garema Place upgrade.
Garema Place is being transformed into a modern dining and retail area in the City Centre.
The project will keep what Canberrans know and love about Garema Place, while also meeting our city’s growing needs. This includes supporting the increasing foot traffic from light rail and bus commuters.
The project – which builds on upgrades to City Walk in 2020 – will create a thriving central meeting place that drives economic activity in the City Centre.
Garema place upgrade project map.
Work is being staged throughout 2025. Major work is on track to finish by late 2025, weather permitting. Some minor works like planting, mulching, and furniture installation may continue into early 2026 with minimal disruption to nearby businesses.
Our partner, RAM Constructions, is managing the construction for this project. They will be providing updates to impacted businesses as staged work progresses.
The City Renewal Authority has received funding through the 2025-26 ACT Budget to improve paving and lighting on City Walk between East Row (the Civic bus interchange) and Ainslie Place.
City Walk, near Garema Place up to East Row, was designed as part of the Garema Place upgrade and is ready for construction. To minimise disruption, construction of this area will be coordinated with the Garema Place upgrade.
The existing artworks in Garema Place have been relocated to facilitate the upgrade.
The Open for Business Guide has been developed to help businesses and property owners before, during, and after construction.
It offers communication tips, government services, and advice specifically for those affected by the project.
Outdoor dining is about creating spaces that work for everyone, balancing both community and business needs.
The Places to Dine – Outdoor Dining Toolkit for Garema Place outlines how thoughtful outdoor dining set ups can activate public space, support local business, and improve the experience of being in the city.
An Outdoor Dining Toolkit has been developed in partnership with Oculus and businesses operating outdoor dining in Garema Place to support the area’s transformation. It outlines the available spaces and the processes for applying for outdoor dining.
It provides clear, consistent guidance for outdoor dining that enhances the public realm and community and business needs.
Well-designed and functional outdoor dining can support:
During public consultation for the Garema Place upgrade strong support was expressed for outdoor dining to boost the area’s appeal, encourage longer visits, and contribute to the local economy. Feedback highlighted the need for inclusive furniture, weather protection, cleanliness, and a unified design approach across public and private spaces.
Garema Place upgrade consultation receives expressed desire for outdoor high quality and consistent outdoor dining.
In 2023, a public consultation was held to gather feedback on a draft design for the upgrade. Input from property owners, businesses and the broader community has helped shape the final design.
For more details on the public consultation and to read our report on community and stakeholder feedback, please visit the YourSay consultation website.
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For construction-related matters, contact RAM Constructions via email at info@ramconstructions.com.au
For general questions about the project, email CityRenewal@act.gov.au
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.