Construction work on London Circuit associated with the light rail will affect businesses for two years. Photo: Tenele Conway.
City businesses impacted by light rail works will benefit from an ACT Government package of support, as well as the promised liquor licence fee relief to boost Canberra’s night-time economy.
The government said the measures were based on feedback from businesses and focused on easing cost pressures and encouraging more Canberrans to visit the area, mainly along London Circuit in City West, but also around Bailey’s Corner.
They include free parking, fee relief, a safety boost, a publicity campaign and free advice.
The new free parking period will be Wednesday to Sunday evenings from 5:30 pm, at Theatre Lane Car Park (opposite Sydney Building), City Hill Car Park (Section 116), Canberra Olympic Pool Car Park (City southeast)
Hospitality businesses directly impacted by construction activities will be eligible for outdoor dining permit fee waivers from 1 July 2025.
They will also benefit from expanded liquor licence fee reductions from 1 July that will be available to all ACT hospitality businesses up to a 350-person capacity, promised by Labor at the 2024 election.
An automatic 50 per cent liquor fee reduction will be expanded to cafes, restaurants and general licences up to 150-person capacity, in addition to the existing 50 per cent fee reduction for cafes and restaurants up to 80-person capacity.
A 50 per cent liquor fee reduction will be expanded to venues showcasing artists with a capacity between 151 and 350 persons, available upon application, in addition to the existing fee reduction of 80 per cent for venues up to 150-person capacity.
Customer safety will be enhanced by new CCTV cameras to be installed and upgraded around London Circuit, and the City Renewal Authority will install more lighting.
A promotional campaign will launch mid-year to let Canberrans know that London Circuit is open for business, spotlighting local venues and retailers.
Affected businesses will also be able to obtain free advice tailored to their sector and needs.
The package is the government’s response to business owners who went public last month to demand help after the start of light rail Stage 2A works caused custom to fall off a cliff.
While supporting the project and the benefits it will bring to City West, many traders feared they would not be around to enjoy them when light rail is up and running.
The support package will be welcomed, but traders are seeking more financial support, such as rates, rent and tax relief, as well as wage subsidies, to see them through the next couple of years.
Mezzalira’s Pasquale Trimboli, Canberra Business Chamber CEO Greg Harford, MLA Thomas Emerson, 98 Gym owner Harriet Walker, Senator David Pocock and Parlour and Hi Jinks owner Kevin Steadman discuss the impacts of the light rail project on their businesses last month. Photo: Ian Bushnell.
The ACT’s peak hospitality body has backed the package, saying any effort to re-invigorate areas in Civic and on the light rail route would be appreciated by industry.
Australian Hotels Association ACT general manager Chris Gatfield said while businesses around the new light rail construction zones were clearly suffering, the new package announced by the government was welcome.
“There is a real need for action here – reduced costs and more patronage are what hospitality needs right now,” Mr Gatfield said.
“The combination of licence fee reductions and a concerted effort to drive foot traffic to the area is a good start.”
Mr Gatfield joined with government ministers in urging Canberrans to get into the city and support their local hospitality businesses.
“Every visit will make a real difference,” he said.
Transport Chris Steel said the support package recognised the real challenges facing businesses as the city delivers a once-in-a-generation infrastructure upgrade.
“Light rail is transforming our CBD as a vibrant and well-connected place to do business. However, we know that with construction of this part of the line, there is an impact on nearby businesses, particularly hospitality businesses,” Mr Steel said.
“This package builds on the business partnership plan we have already put in place to support businesses during the construction.
“The best thing that Canberrans can do right now to support businesses in the city is to get out and visit them. The businesses are open and we are encouraging Canberrans to support them through the measures announced today.”
Night-Time Economy Minister Tara Cheyne said the government wanted to ensure that these businesses remain destinations of choice, even during light rail’s construction.
“These initiatives are designed to encourage locals and visitors alike to support our incredible hospitality sector. For these businesses, there is no substitute for patronage. I encourage Canberrans to get out across the city to explore and enjoy your favourite bars, restaurants and shops.”
Business Minister Michael Pettersson said the package was developed in consultation with traders and industry representatives.
“We’ve listened to the concerns of local business owners and tailored this package to respond to what they need most,” Mr Pettersson said.
“This is a practical response designed to ease pressure and maintain confidence in the city centre during construction.”
The government said business owners in the London Circuit area would be contacted directly with further information on how to access support, and it would continue talking with them as the project progresses.
