The Hon Catherine King MP
Commonwealth Government approves Light Rail Stage 2A
The Commonwealth Government, through the National Capital Authority (NCA), has granted Works Approval to extend the Light Rail network in Canberra from its current southern terminus at Alinga Street to a new stop at Commonwealth Park.
After careful consideration and an extensive public consultation process, the NCA has concluded the Stage 2A works are consistent with the National Capital Plan requirements.
The NCA considered of a variety of different criteria, such as the quality of the public realm, community amenity, environment, heritage, and landscape values.
Other issues raised by the community during the consultation process have been referred to the ACT Government.
The ACT Government as the project builder and owner, will consider and decide on matters relating to transport mode selection, alternative options, and project costs.
Public consultation was held from 28 March 2023 to 11 May 2023, with 68 submissions received.
Key issues raised by the community during the consultation include:
- The need for safety and accessibility
- The need for well-designed, comfortable, and user-friendly public light rail stops
- The need for seamless connections between different modes of transport
- The need for careful planning to mitigate congestion, improve traffic flow, and minimise disruptions
- The need to reduce overall impact on the urban environment and public spaces
The Consultation Report is available for viewing on the NCA website: https://www.nca.gov.au/
The approval does not encompass the broader Light Rail Stage 2B to Woden proposal, and future options put forward by the ACT Government will be considered by the NCA.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Catherine King MP:
“We know our national capital is fast growing – and as we plan for the infrastructure needs of tomorrow, it’s important we ensure the future of this great city is consistent with the National Capital Plan.
“Through extensive public consultation and careful consideration of the required criteria – that’s exactly what the NCA has done – and work on this nationally-significant project can continue to progress.
“The Commonwealth and ACT Governments will continue to work closely on future stages of Light Rail Stage 2.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne MP:
"This is really exciting news because light rail is an important infrastructure project that helps future-proof Canberra.
"A well-run and reliable public transport system will be crucial as the national capital continues to grow and this works approval marks an important milestone in bringing the light rail to south Canberra.
“Light rail is good for the environment and good for our city as it grows into the future.”
Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel MLA:
“The ACT Government is working with the Commonwealth to deliver the biggest infrastructure project in Canberra’s history, and the works approval granted today is a major step in delivering light rail to Woden.
“The extension of the popular light rail line will transform the southern part of the CBD into a better place for people with public transport connectivity to major employment and recreation precincts in City West, the ANU, City South, Acton Waterfront and Commonwealth Park.
“Now that we have all relevant major approvals for this part of the works, the Government will now shift focus to the detailed planning and design required to determine the future alignment and delivery for the remaining part of the mass-transit line to Woden.
“The ACT Government included $50 million in the 2023-2024 budget to progress planning work for Stage 2B with consultation to begin next year.
“I thank the Commonwealth for their support in delivering this important piece of city shaping infrastructure, that will support thousands of jobs and make Canberra a more sustainable and vibrant city as our population grows.”
Quotes attributable to National Capital Authority Chief Executive, Sally Barnes:
“The NCA is pleased to approve the Works Approval application for the Light Rail Stage 2A extension.
“This extension will provide a much-needed public transport connection between the city centre and Commonwealth Park and will help to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the city centre."