Independent MLA for Kurrajong Thomas Emerson has welcomed a $10 million federal funding commitment to improve lighting around Lake Burley Griffin, saying the investment will significantly enhance public safety at one of Canberra’s most heavily used public spaces.
The funding was confirmed in the Federal Government’s Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO) and will be delivered through the National Capital Authority (NCA).
Mr Emerson said the announcement followed concerns he raised in the ACT Legislative Assembly almost six months ago about the impact of poor lighting on safety around the lake.
In June this year, Mr Emerson introduced a motion in the Legislative Assembly following a series of attacks on women while exercising, calling for action to address lighting in Commonwealth-owned areas such as the Lake Burley Griffin perimeter. Mr Emerson said that earlier calls to improve lighting to increase women’s safety were dismissed as “missing the point”.
“This is a big win for our community,” Mr Emerson said. “It’s fantastic to see such a significant response from the National Capital Authority to an issue the ACT Government hasn’t taken seriously.”
Mr Emerson said he would continue to push for broader investment in lighting across Canberra.
“The ACT Government should follow the lead of the National Capital Authority by investing in better lighting in popular exercise locations around Canberra, in line with their own Gender Sensitive Urban Design Framework,” he said.
The ACT Government’s Gender Sensitive Urban Design Framework, released in 2023, identifies improved lighting as the most effective way to increase safety in urban spaces.
Community advocates and active-travel groups also welcomed the funding.
Every Street Matters founder Kim Elms said the investment was a practical and evidence-based approach to improving safety and accessibility.
“The Albanese Government’s commitment of $10 million to improve lighting and safety around Lake Burley Griffin is a significant and long-overdue investment in one of Canberra’s most heavily used public spaces. Improving lighting is a practical, evidence-based way to increase safety, accessibility and confidence for everyone who uses the lake.”
She said early feedback from existing solar lighting upgrades along the shared path near Queen Elizabeth Terrace had already shown positive results.
“I’m keen to see a clear and transparent implementation plan, including priority areas, community consultation and timelines, to ensure this investment delivers meaningful, on-the-ground outcomes,” she said.
Pedal Power ACT executive director Cecily Michaels said improved lighting would benefit cyclists and other path users.
“The lake is one of Canberra’s most popular and iconic cycling routes, used daily for commuting, training and recreation,” Ms Michaels said.
“Better lighting is a win for everyone — it supports safer cycling year-round and helps more people, particularly women, feel confident using this shared path early in the morning or after dark.”
