Artist's impression of the Garema Place upgrade.
Garema Place is being transformed into a modern dining and retail area in the City Centre.
The project will keep what Canberrans know and love about Garema Place, while also meeting our city’s growing needs. This includes supporting the increasing foot traffic from light rail and bus commuters.
The project – which builds on upgrades to City Walk in 2020 – will create a thriving central meeting place that drives economic activity in the City Centre.
Garema place upgrade project map.
*The section under future works formed part of the consultation but is not currently part of the proposed construction program. It is subject to future funding and may be incorporated into the project at a later stage.
Works will be staged throughout 2025. The indicative staging plan below provides details of the affected areas and the expected timing.
Our construction partner, RAM Constructions, are managing the construction for this project. They will be providing updates to impacted businesses as staged work progresses.
The existing artworks in Garema Place have been relocated to facilitate the upgrade.
Space within Garema Place has been allocated for a new statue of Stasia Dabrowski OAM, known as Canberra’s ‘soup kitchen lady’. The artwork is being commissioned and delivered by artsACT.
The Open for Business Guide has been developed to help businesses and property owners before, during, and after construction.
It offers communication tips, government services, and advice specifically for those affected by the project.
An Outdoor Dining Toolkit has been developed to support the transformation of Garema Place. It outlines the available spaces and the processes for applying for outdoor dining.
In 2023, a public consultation was held to gather feedback on a draft design for the upgrade. Input from property owners, businesses and the broader community has helped shape the final design.
For more details on the public consultation and to read our report on community and stakeholder feedback, please visit the YourSay consultation website.
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For construction-related matters, contact RAM Constructions representative Anthony Hegarty via email at anthony.hegarty@ramconstructions.com.au
For general questions about the project, email CityRenewal@act.gov.au
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.