In brief:

• The ACT Government has extended CBR NightCrew’s contract for a further two years.
• CBR NightCrew is run by St John Ambulance ACT.
• Volunteers provide first aid and support to those in need during nights out in the city centre.
• This article covers what CBR NightCrew does and how it helps the community.

The ACT Government has extended its contract with St John Ambulance ACT to continue the work of CBR NightCrew for a further two years.

CBR NightCrew is a trusted part of Canberra’s nightlife. Since 2017, it has helped people stay safe while out at night.

This has also reduced pressure on emergency services.

CBR NightCrew operates from a safe space tent in the Civic bus interchange. It runs on Friday and Saturday nights all year round, with Thursday nights added during daylight-saving months.

Trained volunteers patrol key areas to check if anyone needs help. They also support anyone who visits the tent.

Helping before problems escalate

The program uses a harm minimisation approach, stepping in to help before problems become emergencies.

Volunteers support people who may be unwell, injured or affected by alcohol or drugs. They provide:

• free first aid
• water and lollipops
• phone charging
• advice on getting home safely
• triaging before possible ambulance attendance
• a safe place to rest.

In recent months

Between October and December 2025, CBR NightCrew helped almost 2,000 people. More than two thirds of those were aged 18 to 25.

Their actions reduced or avoided 73 ambulance callouts. As well as lowering costs, this kept ambulances available for serious emergencies.

Trained for serious situations

CBR NightCrew teams are trained to handle many situations – from a cut or graze to an opioid overdose.

In 2025, teams were involved in three life-saving resuscitations. They also helped during at least one major incident with multiple injured people.

Continuing to keep nights safe

The ACT Government’s ongoing partnership with St John Ambulance ACT will allow CBR NightCrew to keep making nights out safer for the community.

Find more information on the St John Ambulance website.

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• Ways you can help a vulnerable person in Canberra
• All you need to know about assistance dogs

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