to the lake. It’s been a long-held goal of the ACT Government to link the city and the lake better.” That vision is now well into the planning stages.The proposed precinct is not just a convention centre— it’s a transformative urban development that aims to redefine Canberra’s relationship with its geography and identity. With potential plans for a sweeping pedestrian bridge spanning a six-lane motorway and connecting the venue to Commonwealth Park and the lakefront, the centre is designed to bridge not only distance but experience. Chief Minister Andrew Barr described the precinct as “a key city-shaping project that will define the city centre” and one of the most significant developments in Canberra’s modern history. Wood highlights how the precinct aligns with Canberra’s broader evolution into a hub of innovation and national relevance. “We’re seeing Canberra become a centre for engineering, cyber security, and defence,” he says, referencing the incoming University of New South Wales Canberra (UNSW Canberra) campus—the fourth major university to establish itself in the capital. This addition strengthens the city’s position as a leader in education, technology, and national security. RECORD-BREAKING GROWTH The timing for this ambitious transformation is ideal. Canberra’s business events sector is thriving, having recently achieved a record-breaking year. “We just experienced our biggest year ever,”Wood shares.“We exceeded previous records by about 30%. We’re not only back to pre-COVID levels—we’re well beyond them.” A combination of geopolitical shifts, Canberra’s role as the seat of federal power, and increasing focus on national defence and security have propelled the city to the forefront of Australia’s events industry.The upcoming national security office precinct, which will consolidate key federal agencies, further cements Canberra’s strategic appeal. These developments position Canberra as an unmatched location for conferences and delegations. “Things are happening here you just don’t find elsewhere in Australia,” Wood notes. DESIGNING FOR FLEXIBILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY The new precinct is envisioned as a versatile space that reflects modern needs. “It will be about three times the scale of our current centre,” says Wood. “But what’s exciting is the inclusion of a flexible entertainment arena.” This arena is not merely a performance space—it’s a multifunctional venue capable of hosting sports, concerts, galas, and exhibitions. It will be structurally 61 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 05 NATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE CANBERRA
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