Construction has begun on 57 social housing apartments in Gungahlin, part of a joint ACT and federal government investment to boost housing for vulnerable Canberrans.

Hindmarsh Construction Australia will build the apartments, due in early 2027.

Funded through the Social Housing Accelerator and Housing Australia Future Fund, the project will deliver a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments, close to shops, schools, and public transport. They will be adaptable for people with disability.

Minister for Homes Yvette Berry MLA said the development was part of “a generational investment in housing infrastructure” to meet Canberra’s growing population. Federal MP Dr Andrew Leigh said the homes would provide more than just shelter, fostering community connections.

ACT Shelter CEO Corinne Dobson welcomed the project but warned broader investment was needed to meet demand and cut waiting lists.

“These well-located, accessible homes will make a real difference for Canberrans in urgent need of secure and affordable housing.

“While these additional dwellings represent a welcome and positive development, the scale of current investment in social housing is not enough to reverse the decline in social housing as a share of all dwellings. All levels of government must urgently prioritise and scale up investment in social housing if we are to meet the level of need in our community, reduce public housing waiting lists, and ensure all Canberrans have a safe, secure home.”

New southside hydrotherapy pool opening next week

South Canberra will have its first dedicated hydrotherapy facility in five years when the new $.85 million pool at Tuggeranong’s Lakeside Leisure Centre opens on 25 August.

The ACT Government-funded project will deliver a long-awaited health and rehabilitation service. The southside has been without a hydrotherapy pool since the Canberra Hospital pool at Garran was closed in 2020.

“Hydrotherapy is a powerful tool for recovery, rehabilitation and pain management,” health minister Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA said. “This new pool will support people living with chronic conditions such as arthritis, cancer and migraines, and those recovering from injury or surgery. It’s designed to be inclusive, accessible and welcoming for all Canberrans.” 

The facility complements the University of Canberra Hospital’s hydrotherapy pool, ensuring more Canberrans can access hydrotherapy services close to home.

The pool can be booked through the Active World app or in person at reception.

ACT Health partnered with architecture firm GHD to design the facility. Community members advice was included in the project to deliver a modern facility that meets the needs now and in future.

Concerns over changes to Manuka hotel and cinema project

Independent MLA Fiona Carrick has raised concerns about a lack of transparency in the Manuka hotel and cinema development, following reports the project will now include only one theatre operated by the hotel.

The original 2021 development approval allowed for a six-storey building with multiple cinemas, touted as a boost for Manuka’s economy and for events at Manuka Oval. Ms Carrick said the apparent change “highlights systemic weaknesses” in the ACT’s planning system, allowing major alterations without public scrutiny.

Ms Carrick has written to planning minister Chris Steel MLA seeking copies of amended development applications, the final approval, and an explanation for the absence of community consultation.

“Local residents should be kept informed about significant changes that impact their neighbourhood and local businesses need to have confidence about the economic development of the precinct.”