The ACT and Commonwealth Governments have marked the centenary of the gazettal of the Griffin Plan for the National Capital, the design blueprint that shaped Canberra into Australia’s first fully planned city.
American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin’s design for the new national capital emerged from a 1911 international competition. Griffin’s proposal, illustrated with his wife’s now-famous renderings, was announced the winner in May 1912.
The plan used Canberra’s natural topography as its organising principle: a city framed by Black Mountain, Mount Ainslie, and Mugga Mugga; centred around a chain of ornamental lake basins; and structured along two primary axes. At its heart sat the Parliamentary Triangle.
Griffin was appointed Federal Capital Director of Design and Construction, but progress stalled during World War I and through years of departmental conflict, and Griffin left Canberra in 1920.
The governments said the 100-year milestone offered an opportunity to reflect on the plan’s lasting influence on Canberra’s identity: “It is an enduring legacy that continues to shape the way Canberra evolves, ensuring the city remains one of the world’s most liveable places.”
They reaffirmed their commitment to honour the Griffin Plan “while guiding the city toward a sustainable, resilient and prosperous future”.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said Canberra’s current infrastructure investment was aligned with the Griffins’ original vision — including the north-south light rail spine.
“The spirit of the plan will continue as we prioritise other initiatives that support our growing city – just as the Griffins intended,” Mr Barr said.
Kirsty McBain MP, Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, said: “The Griffins’ legacy is profound and continues to have an impact on how we view the city and plan its future. It’s wonderful to commemorate this important milestone as we continue to see Canberra grow into a vibrant, sustainable city.”
For more information about the Griffin Plan in the ACT, visit the National Capital Authority’s website.
