Telstra Tower, one of Canberra’s most iconic landmarks, has been closed for five years, but is likely to reopen in the summer of 2027-28 as a tourist attraction.

“For decades, Telstra Tower has been a symbol of Canberra” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said. “Its revitalisation will help strengthen our tourism offering while creating another place for Canberrans to connect with the stories, culture and innovation that have shaped our city.”

The combined communication and visitor tower, opened in 1980, was closed in July 2021 because it was rundown and needed upgrading. In 2024, the ACT Government struck a deal with Telstra to reopen it as a premier tourist attraction.

The attraction will celebrate the cultural significance of Black Mountain and its surrounds, Canberra’s contemporary character, the tower’s history, and Australia’s telecommunications history. 

The ACT Government and Telstra signed a Heads of Agreement this week, and have received conditional works approval from the National Capital Authority.

“This milestone brings us closer to seeing it reimagined as a destination for future generations,” Mr Barr said.

Earlier this year, Ngunnawal Elders accused the government of sidelining an Indigenous-led vision for the landmark and excluding them from discussions.

The ACT Government said it is working with Traditional Custodians to ensure Ngunnawal knowledge, cultural values and community priorities were reflected in the project.