Arabic version: فتح باب التعليقات على مسودة خطة للممر الجنوبي في كانبرا
According to ABC News, the ACT government has released a draft framework for development along Canberra’s southern transport corridor, seeking public feedback on growth plans extending from Parliament House to Mawson and Woden Town Centre. Community engagement is open from 22 July to 15 September 2026, with a final Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework due in 2027.
The draft Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework sets out a vision for sustainable growth beyond 2050, when Canberra’s population is projected to reach 700,000. It centres on the future light rail line running from Parliament House through to Mawson and Woden. Under the proposal, mid-rise housing would be concentrated near transport stops and shopping centres, while high-rise development would be reserved for Woden Town Centre and north Curtin.
ACT Minister for Planning and Sustainable Development Chris Steel said the government’s transit-oriented approach aimed to provide housing near high-frequency light rail and rapid bus services, as well as jobs, amenities and services. He described mid-rise buildings as about six or seven storeys and said this form of housing was a gap in Canberra’s market. Mr Steel said the framework was consistent with Walter Burley Griffin’s vision for Adelaide Avenue, with greater density along a multimodal boulevard stepping down towards lower-density suburbs and hills.
Nelson Tang of the Woden Valley Community Council said the council welcomed a larger population but wanted facilities to keep pace. He cited the need for a community centre, a town hall and further sporting investment. Mr Tang also raised concerns about proposed high-rises, saying community feedback supported retaining Woden’s suburban character and making changes gradually.
The Public Transport Association of Canberra welcomed the framework’s focus on linking land use with high-capacity public transport. Chair Amy Jelacic said new housing should be aligned with the rollout of light rail stage 2B so neighbourhoods were supported from day one. The government has confirmed the Stage 2B route would run from Commonwealth Avenue through the National Triangle, along the east of State Circle to Adelaide Avenue and then to Woden.
