The ACT Government has reached a key milestone in planning the new Convention and Entertainment Centre Precinct, a project the Canberra Convention Bureau (CCB) indicates will finally allow the capital to host major international events and large-scale exhibitions.
While the project is moving forward, officials confirmed that no official completion date is currently available. A full business case is not expected until mid-2028, leaving the final timeline for the A$750 million (US$532 million) development fluid as it enters the detailed design phase.
The precinct will enable Canberra to host multiple concurrent conferences and major 8,000-seat arena events. The plan also includes a new aquatic facility at Commonwealth Park to replace the ageing Canberra Olympic Pool.
The site will sit close to the new UNSW Canberra City Campus, creating a centralised hub for education, business, and tourism.
CCB’s CEO Michael Matthews noted strong existing interest from organisers, stating the infrastructure is vital to meet “unprecedented” demand.
He added: “This is about much more than conferences and events, however. It’s about creating more activity in the city, attracting new visitors, supporting local businesses and generating jobs across hospitality, tourism and the broader events sector.”
