Build-to-Rent units in Curtin
Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Goulburn will build 54 affordable units in Curtin, supported by the ACT Government’s $60 million Affordable Housing Project Fund. They will include one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
Construction is expected to begin in mid-2025 and be completed by mid-to-late 2026, pending planning approvals.
The ACT Government established the Affordable Housing Project Fund in 2023 to grow the supply of affordable rental properties in Canberra and strengthen the community housing sector.
The Curtin development is one of six projects supported through the fund so far. In total, they are expected to deliver up to 280 new affordable rental properties in Canberra.
Community housing providers and landholders can submit proposals for the Affordable Housing Project Fund by 9 April. More information is available on the Government’s Housing website.
Braddon Busking Hub to amplify local musical talent
The Braddon Busking Hub will provide an easier and safer way for buskers to receive payments, the City Renewal Authority and Music ACT say.
Official Braddon Busking Hub signage with QR codes will promote consumer confidence in electronic payments and establish a sustainable framework for artists to earn financial returns from their performances, arts minister Tara Cheyne said.
“Braddon Busking Hub is dedicated to fostering a busking culture in Braddon,” the minister said. “We are providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and earn money for it.”
To gain assistance through Braddon Busking Hub, interested musicians can submit an inquiry on the Braddon Busking Hub website to receive an information pack outlining the next steps. As part of the application process, buskers must submit a short video showcasing their musical talents.
“Braddon is the perfect place for a busker to be seen and heard,” says musician Ava Martina.
“It’s the perfect place to just chill out in a corner and play some music. There is nothing I love more than watching people walk by and just have a smile on their face because you’re playing some music in an unexpected place.
“I’ve done a little bit of busking in Canberra, but I’ve never really known which places to go, or there hasn’t really been a dedicated street where I’ve seen lots of buskers. Braddon Busking Hub makes it possible to reach new listeners in such a central part of the city.”
New skating pipe
A new half-pipe will be built at the Belconnen skatepark. It is expected to open to the public early in the second half of 2024.
It could be used for competitions, and incorporated into an expanded competition as part of the ‘Belco Bowl’, Ms Cheyne said.
“Canberra’s skate culture is very strong and its popularity is growing,” Yvette Berry, ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation, said. “The Belco skatepark is considered world-class by many skate enthusiasts, with national and international visitors dropping in to be part of the action. The half-pipe will take it to another level and extend its appeal as a destination right here in Canberra.
“I’m totally stoked the ramp is on its way, and can’t wait to see all the air and gnarly moves”.
The competition standard half-pipe is funded by both the ACT Government and the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
