The 2025–26 ACT Budget includes a significant investment in a new pool in Commonwealth Park, as well as a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre Precinct.

These projects are progressing through a partnership between the ACT and Australian Governments.

A Commonwealth Park pool

The 2025–26 ACT Budget will support the development of a business case for the new Canberra Aquatic Centre.

This will include:

• functional design

• costings

• pre-construction work

• a construction provision.

The centre will be built in Commonwealth Park, near the new light rail stops on Commonwealth Avenue.

It will provide modern facilities for Canberrans. It will also bring more people into the heart of the city.

A new Convention and Entertainment Precinct

The Budget will also support a new Convention and Entertainment Precinct in the CBD.

The existing convention centre is at capacity and unable to meet future demand.

A new, larger facility will comprise:

• a larger convention centre

• an integrated 8,000-seat entertainment centre.

This will allow the national capital to host:

• major summits

• conferences

• entertainment, including live music

• indoor sporting events.

The precinct will secure Canberra’s place on the live music touring circuit and as a destination for business events.

This will boost the ACT’s visitor economy and grow local jobs in tourism, hospitality and construction.

Budget investment will support feasibility and design work, progressing it to construction readiness, then design and construction.

Further investment for a creative city

The Government is also making major investments in Canberra’s arts and cultural life.

The Budget includes support for delivery of the new Canberra Lyric Theatre.

This will transform the Canberra Theatre Centre and attract blockbuster productions and touring shows.

These major projects will stimulate economic growth, support jobs, and help create a more vibrant, inclusive and connected Canberra.

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