FALLS CHURCH, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, working with federal law enforcement partners from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Diplomatic Security Service, apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national and convicted sex offender, Ander Cortez-Mendez, 21, in Falls Church,Virginia, April 2.
“Ander Cortez-Mendez is a convicted sex offender, and exactly the type of illegal alien that ICE officers seek to remove from Washington, D.C. and Virginia,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “We refuse to allow such offenders to continue to threaten the residents of our neighborhoods. ICE Washington, D.C. and our law enforcement partners will continue to arrest and remove criminal aliens from the streets of our communities.”
U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Cortez-Mendez Feb. 04, 2018, after he illegally entered the United States near Rio Grande Valley, Texas. The next day, USBP issued Cortez-Mendez a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.
Officers with the Fairfax County Police Department arrested Cortez-Mendez, March 16, 2024, for sex crimes.
ICE Washington, D.C. lodged an immigration detainer against Cortez-Mendez with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, March 18, 2024; however, the detention center refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Cortez-Mendez back into the community.
The Fairfax County Circuit Court found Cortez-Mendez guilty of consensual sexual intercourse with a child May 20, 2024. The court sentenced Cortez-Mendez to three months in prison but suspended the entire prison sentence.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROWashington.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.
2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Belconnen
New health centre for West Belconnen
FOGO pilot expanded
More housing for Belconnen
New and upgraded community facilities
Belconnen Transitway feasibility study
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.
Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.
Some of the projects funded in Belconnen include:
A new health centre for West Belconnen
The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.
This includes funding to design and plan a new health centre in West Belconnen. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.
The Government is also investing in a new North Canberra Hospital, including upgrades to existing buildings to maintain services during construction and design work to relocate some existing services.
The Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.
This includes:
the expansion of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium
the replacement of the existing pavilion at Jamison Oval
upgrades to the Emu Bank foreshore
improving local shops at Charnwood Group Centre, Evatt, Kippax Group Centre, and Macquarie
delivering a new green waste processing facility and landscape depot in West Belconnen.
The Government will also respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.
The Budget includes funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in the ACT’s mowing teams.
In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.
Belconnen to City Transitway feasibility study
The Government will undertake a bus transitway feasibility study to investigate potential upgrades to the transport corridor between Belconnen and the City.
The study will focus on improving bus services to minimise congestion and delays between two of Canberra’s major population hubs.
This initiative will be partially funded through a matching contribution from the Commonwealth Government.
The Budget will also provide funding to finalise the duplication of William Hovell Drive and Gundaroo Drive between Ginninderra Drive and the Barton Highway.
The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.
This includes roof replacement work at Charnwood Dunlop Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School.
The Budget also includes funding to deliver:
Strathnairn Primary School in the Ginninderry area, which will cater for over 600 preschool to year 6 students
a 130-place Early Childhood Education and Care service.
Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget by clicking here.
The ACT’s horticulture and mowing teams will receive a funding boost.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Budget will fund path improvements across the Inner North, Inner South and City.
2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Inner North, Inner South and City
A new Inner South Health Centre
More housing for the region
Path improvements across the region
The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
More funding for mowing and horticulture
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.
Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.
Some of the projects funded in the Inner North, Inner South and City include:
A new Inner South Health Centre
The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.
This includes funding to build the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.
The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.
As part of the program, 4,587 new homes are planned for the Inner North, Inner South and City region.
Road and path improvements across the region
Funding received through the 2024–25 ACT Budget will see improvements made to paths across the Inner North, Inner South and City.
Walkers, cyclists and those riding scooters can expect to see better line marking, completed missing links and more lighting as they exercise or head to and from work.
Other investments across the region include:
progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, which includes design and construction of an extension from the existing Light Rail Stage 1 terminus at Alinga Street to a new stop at Commonwealth Park
road improvements along Beltana Road in Pialligo
construction of the Garden City Cycle Route.
The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
The Electrification of Gas Assets Program is a 17-year commitment by the ACT Government to replace all gas-powered assets used within Government owned and operated buildings.
The program will abolish and electrify over 1,000 gas assets and will contribute to the goal of net zero emissions from Government operations by 2040.
Funding in the 2024–25 ACT Budget will allow for cooling upgrades at Alfred Deakin High School as part of the program.
The 2024–25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.
This includes responding to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
This Budget will also provide support for:
finalising construction of the new Acton Emergency Services Station to house ACT Ambulance Service and ACT Fire & Rescue staff
undertaking capital upgrades at the City Police Station and planning for future accommodation requirements
The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.
This includes:
the refurbishment of the existing Lyneham High School gymnasium
roof replacement work at Dickson College
continuing the modernisation and expansion of Majura Primary School, Telopea Park High School and Narrabundah College
progressing the UNSW Canberra City Campus project.
Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget here.
Canberra’s mowing teams and resources have been expanded.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
There is a comprehensive cost-of-living package included in this year’s Budget.
The ACT Government is offering continued support to Canberrans most impacted by cost of living pressures.
Cost of living pressures are being felt across the country and this year’s ACT Budget does more for low-income households.
Supporting apprentices and trainees
One initiative is a new, one-off $250 payment to support local apprentices and trainees.
Apprentices and trainees have a restricted earning capacity while they are obtaining their qualification.
This payment recognises the financial pressures these Canberrans are facing.
The ACT Government will contact eligible apprentices and trainees by the end of September. It is not necessary to apply for the payment.
Assisting families with schooling costs
The ACT Government is also expanding the Future of Education Equity Fund.
The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education.
Already in 2024, the Future of Education Equity Fund has supported more than 5000 students in Canberra.
More families will be able to get financial assistance with things like textbooks, music lessons and sporting equipment.
Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate
Over 40,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate.
The payment will be increased to $800 per year, helping these households with their home energy costs.
When combined with the $300 Federal Government energy payment, one in five Canberra households will receive $1,100 in assistance towards their energy bills.
Targeted cost of living support
These initiatives are part of a comprehensive cost of living package included in this year’s Budget. The package also includes:
expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300, to support more households to change their energy use
extending the Rent Relief Fund to support more Canberrans on low incomes who are experiencing rental stress or severe financial hardship
expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card, to support more people accessing buses and light rail
additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters to support these community organisations to continue delivering essential services to vulnerable Canberrans
additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services, to support vulnerable Canberrans in need of food and other necessities
increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users, further reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable Canberrans
increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.
Proud First Nations women Chloe Spratt and Amanda Flemming are driven to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive.
They wear many hats as the Early Years Engagement Officers at the ACT Government’s Child and Family Centres.
Central to their role is engaging with parents about their children’s education – and this begins with Koori Preschool.
Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.
Each week, Chloe and Amanda visit Canberra’s five Koori Preschools to meet with families and staff.
Parents and carers get to know them during drop-off and pick-up times and can approach them to discuss support they might need.
School staff can also discuss any concerns with Chloe or Amanda – with consent from the family. Chloe and Amanda can then link the family to relevant services for support which could include referral into the Child and Family Centres or Child Development Service to assist addressing the individual needs of families.
Both officers are determined to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have a positive experience of school.
“I’ve been in the Early Years Engagement Officer for four years and I am very passionate about supporting our children in community and working so closely with the Koori Preschool program,” Chloe said.
They work tirelessly to empower families to play an active role in their child’s learning journey.
Such efforts have played a role in the success of Koori Preschool.
Enrolments have increased over the past five years and school readiness among First Nations preschoolers has also improved.
An additional 100 places at Koori Preschool were funded in last year’s budget.
Both women regard their work as not just a job, but a calling. This dedication illustrates the power of advocacy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood development.
“Being that person who family feel culturally connected to and feel safe to yarn with you is a great sense of belonging in the community,” Amanda said.
“I love that as An Early Years Engagement Officer I can help give the best start to the little Borri and help the families get the support they may need for their family.
“I enjoy being able to see the Borris go from strength to strength from the early intervention they may be linked into with the child development.
“I think the best part is when you visit each school the Borri running up to you and saying ‘Aunty Manda, can you came and play with me’ or ‘can you be my partner on the bus’ when I join them on learning on country,” she said.
Koori Preschools operate at five school sites around Canberra, with curriculum aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework.
Ngunnawal Primary School
Kingsford Smith School
Narrabundah Early Childhood School
Wanniassa School
Richardson Primary School.
Parents and carers can enrol Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Koori Preschool at any time between the ages of three and five.
Koori Preschool enrolments are now open for the 2025 school year.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Canberra families will have better access to paediatric health services where and when they need it.
Canberra families will have access to more paediatric health services in both the hospital and the community, as part of the 2024–25 ACT Budget funding.
The investment will expand paediatric inpatient care as well as community-based paediatric services.
Eight inpatient paediatric beds at Canberra Hospital will be funded.
This will ensure Canberra Health Services can continue to support unwell children and young people when they need specialist paediatric care.
A new paediatric critical care team will also be established at Canberra Hospital.
The team will provide leadership and specialty skills in paediatric critical care to treat and care for children and young people.
They will also provide better coordination, support and upskilling of existing staff in this area.
There will be additional resourcing to expand multidisciplinary rehabilitation services for children with complex and chronic conditions – where care is shared between local and interstate hospitals.
This funding will develop a model of care to support children in a more sustainable and integrated way.
Budget funding will also support critically unwell newborns, with additional cots added the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Nursery at Canberra Hospital.
The ACT Government will establish a new location for community-based paediatric services.
This will give families with children with – or at risk of – developmental delays or certain health conditions easier access to services they need, outside of a hospital setting.
These investments will support implementation of actions in the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan 2023–2030 and the opening of dedicated paediatric critical care spaces in Canberra Hospital’s new Critical Services Building.
This Budget builds on the range of Government investments in paediatric services, as well as the expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A range of new and expanded measures will further support Canberrans to find a home that suits their needs.
The ACT Government is supporting more Canberrans to buy a home by extending a range of stamp duty concessions and exemptions.
Funding in the 2024–2025 ACT Budget will save many more first home buyers tens of thousands of dollars when they buy their first home.
It also includes specific assistance for downsizers, people with a disability and those fleeing domestic violence.
Home Buyer Concession Scheme
The ACT Government is making major changes to the Home Buyer Concession Scheme.
Buyers are eligible for the full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.
This will save eligible Canberrans up to $34,000 in tax when they purchase their home.
The Budget expands the scheme from 1 July 2024 to:
increase the income eligibility threshold to $250,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous five years (this is an increase from $170,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous two years)
enable homebuyers with children to earn an additional $4,600 per child and stay eligible (up from an additional $3,330 per child).
People fleeing family violence can have owned a property in the previous five years.
Helping more Canberrans buy a new apartment or townhouse
The Government has also temporarily expanded the stamp duty concession for off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.
This will begin from 1 July 2024 and will support more Canberrans to buy an apartment or townhouse.
Currently, homebuyers do not have to pay stamp duty on off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses valued up to $800,000.
Supporting more housing options in existing suburbs
The Budget will temporarily extend the RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.
This will align with the Off-The-Plan Unit Duty Exemption.
Announced in October 2023, this Scheme applies to the first transfer of unit-titled dwellings on suburban residential (RZ1) blocks.
It is for purchases valued up to $800,000, between 27 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.
The announcement coincided with the commencement of the new Territory Plan, which allows dual occupancy developments on large suburban residential blocks (over 800 square metres).
This extension further supports the development of more dual-occupancy homes in existing suburbs.
It will create more opportunities for Canberrans to find a home, including people looking to downsize in the suburbs they’ve long called home.
More support for people with a disability
The existing Disability Duty Concession Scheme is available to eligible homebuyers with a disability.
The scheme will be extended from 1 July 2024 to provide a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value, to further support people with a long-term or permanent disability.
As a result, a partial concession is now available for properties over $1 million. Previously, the scheme was limited to properties valued up to $1 million.
There will also be a new Severe Disability Duty Exemption from 1 July 2025 to support people with a severe disability, and their carers, to find a home.
This new exemption will mean people with severe disability and their carers will not have to pay stamp duty if the home they are buying is their principal place of residence.
The home does not have to be bought by a Special Disability Trust.
Supporting more pensioners to downsize
The Government has also extended the Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme from 1 July2024.
Pensioners will receive a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.
A partial concession will be available for properties over $1 million.
This extension will support more pensioners to downsize.
The existing scheme provides a full stamp duty concession for homes valued up to $550,000, with a decreasing concession to zero for homes valued between $550,000 and $765,000.
These 2024-25 ACT Budget initiatives relate to the ACT Wellbeing Framework’s housing and home wellbeing domain.
Headline: Verizon Frontline provides critical Unmanned Aircraft Systems support for New Orleans PD during Mardi Gras
What you need to know:
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team supported the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) support during the busiest week of Mardi Gras.
The NOPD requested the support of the Verizon Frontline team due to their experience with advanced UAS technology and long-standing commitment to meeting the mission-critical communications needs of the public safety community.
The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in its mission of keeping officers and festival attendees safe.
NEW ORLEANS – The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team recently completed a deployment in support of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) during the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebrations.
To help enhance situational awareness for first responders during Mardi Gras, the NOPD requested the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provide UAS overwatch support during the busiest week of festivities. The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in achieving its mission of keeping the festivities safe.
UAS overwatch missions assist public safety agencies with threat assessment and real-time decision making while helping reduce risk to personnel and increasing efficiency of operations.
“We’re honored to be asked to support New Orleans first responders during a large-scale event like Mardi Gras,” said Chris Sanders, a senior manager who leads the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team’s UAS program. “This is the first time UAS is being used on a large scale during Mardi Gras, and to be asked for by name speaks to how much our public safety partners trust us and how Verizon Frontline remains on the cutting edge when it comes to leveraging technology to support our nation’s first responders.”
“Mardi Gras is one of the largest events the NOPD manages each year, and ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” said Officer Reese Harper, NOPD director of communications. “Utilizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems during this year’s festivities provided our officers with enhanced situational awareness, helping us monitor crowds, respond more effectively to potential concerns, and keep the celebration safe for everyone. We are always exploring ways to strengthen public safety through innovation and strategic resources.”
Held annually, the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans date back to the 16th century and the city’s origins. The multi-day celebration consists of parades and carnival festivities, where millions of people attend. Mardi Gras also generates over $1 billion for the economy in New Orleans.
The mission of the NOPD is to provide professional police services to the public in order to maintain order and protect life and property. In order to accomplish this mission, the NOPD is committed to the philosophy of Community Oriented Policing as a means to inform organizational decisions and prioritize crime fighting and quality of life initiatives by engaging each neighborhood and community organization in collaborative problem-solving partnerships.
The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provides on-demand, emergency assistance during crisis situations to government agencies and emergency responders on a 24/7 basis at no cost to the supported agencies. Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team members set up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations and other Verizon Frontline devices and solutions that enable communications and/or improve network performance.
Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders – developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials and agencies on the front lines – to meet their unique and evolving needs. Learn more at our site.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ACT Government is increasing housing supply, access and choice to meet the needs of our growing city.
This year’s Budget makes significant investments to deliver more housing in Canberra – particularly for those who need it most.
The Budget includes:
expanding the Affordable Housing Project Fund to $80 million to grow the number of affordable rental properties
$108 million in extra funding for new public housing, and to improve existing public housing – this takes the Housing ACT Capital Works Program to over $530 million over four years
a taskforce to improve repairs and maintenance of public housing and oversee a pilot for insourcing maintenance of two large multi‑unit properties.
These initiatives will help ensure the right mix of housing options to suit a range of household incomes. It will also meet the housing needs of a growing Canberra, which is on track to reach 500,000 people by 2027.
Affordable Housing Project Fund
This Budget provides a significant boost to the Affordable Housing Project Fund, established last year.
The Fund has so far supported six projects, which will deliver 280 affordable rentals.
Canberra’s food scene gets better each year. 2024 is no exception, with a huge array of eateries opening in the last 12 months.
Whether you’re on the lookout for a fresh new favourite in your neighbourhood, or prepared to venture across town, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The latest venture from the team behind Morks showcases Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisine. Grab takeaway noodles for lunch or dine-in from lunch. There’s a tasting menu or a la carte menu to choose from.
This Italian cafe is about as close to the water as you can get. Enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin while you indulge in dishes like breakfast risotto, pistachio cream filled croissants or fresh paninis.
Lil Mama’s is more than just a cafe, it’s a gathering spot for local creatives. That being said, you will find delicious sandwiches, bagels, coffee, matacha lattes, sweet treats and more to enjoy at this waterside spot.
Verity Lane Market has a new vendor offering fresh, authentic Vietnamese cuisine. You’ll find classics like Vietname bread rolls, rice noodle soup, rice/vermicelli diesh and rice paper rolls.
The latest addition to Canberra’s thriving Mexican food scene is serving up tacos, burgers and wings. Vegans will love their plant-based chicken burger or cauliflower tacos. There are also options for pescetarians and carnivores, plus sides like waffle or shoestring fries, jalapeno poppers and mozarella fingers.
From the great minds behind Ter and Barrio comes this suburban all-day dining destination. Recess roast their own beans, so you know the coffee is excellent. With sandwiches, pancakes, pasta dishes and sweet treats on the menu, there’s almost certainly something to cure your cravings.
Mort Street’s latest addition is a western saloon-style bar. Visit for American Southwestern food, craft cocktails, whiskey and more.
Good neighbours are invaluable. But a Good Neighbour serving up coffee, breakfast and lunch seven days a week? Worth its weight in gold. Try the strawberry matcha, shakshouka or chilli crab folded eggs.
After a hiatus that lasted a few years, Crack Bakery is making a comeback. The team behind Pâtissez and Cartel are serving up their beloved pies as well as cookies. Orders can be made exclusively online with pickup at their kitchen at Canberra Airport.
This freshly opened boutique wine bar on Lonsdale Street also serves food and cocktails. Think cheese platters, charcuterie boards, hearty mains and desserts. The menu also includes non-alcoholic options.
Catbird’s menu is inspired by the fresh cuisine of sunny Southern California. There are breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, sweet things and coffee. There’s also a kid’s menu.
Sweet tooths will love the range of flavours at this New York-inspired donut shop. There are filled options like Biscoff or lemon meringue, or traditional glazed donuts.
Rakkas is a modern Turkish restaurant on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin. The menu includes flavourful authentic Turkish dishes like dips and Turkish bread, fried halloumi with honeycomb, chargrilled spatchcock and more.
This Lebanese restaurant is perfect for casual family dining or group celebrations. The mains are perfect for sharing: choose from a grill platter, shawarma meta, a vegetarian mixed plate and more.
If you’re a meat eater with a big appetite, you’ll love this Korean barbeque spot. Choose your proteins and sides and then barbeque right at the table. There are also rice and noodle dishes, soups and stews.
Italian and Sons is a longstanding Canberra favourite. Their new focaccia bar is open from 11:30am to 2:30pm Wednesday to Friday and includes pillowy, fresh focaccia (with a gluten-free option, too!).
Compa is Matt Moran’s foray into the Canberra dining scene. Steaks are the focus of the menu, accompanied by a fine selection of entrees, sides and desserts.
&Sando is also a Matt Moran creation. It’s a sandwich bar that uses bread (and stocks pastry) from local bakery Under. Their sandwiches range includes elevated classics filled with fresh ingredients.
This new café is run by Illy Coffee and the team behind Pizza Artigiana. Their pastry case is filled with sfogliatelle (an Italian pastry with a ricotta citrus filling), cannoli and croissants.
Alia is the spot for family-style Greek dining. Bring a big appetite and choose from slow-cooked lamb gyros, lobster linguine, chicken souvlaki, and baklava cheesecake.
Donuts, cookies and pastries abound at this Dickson dessert spot. Flavours range from the traditional (hot cinnamon and jam) to the unique (bubblegum, iced vovo and earl grey rose).
No need to journey to Wamboin to visit Contentious Character Winery. Their new location in Fyshwick’s Dairy Road precinct offers wine tastings, coffee and dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner (including tapas).
Gourmet sandwiches are the main offering of this New York-style deli. There are also breakfast options including pancakes and a sausage or bacon and egg roll. Sandwiches come fresh or hot, with options like a schnitty roll, beef and pickle and tuna melt.
Bada Bing has a retro charm that’s perfect for date nights or private dining. Dishes are designed to share and include antipasti, pizza, pasta and more.
Kingston Foreshore’s newest spot is open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway. The menu includes a mushroom croissant, Turkish eggs, chicken porridge and a crab omelette.
Pick up a coffee from Howie Espresso and don’t leave without one of their delicious grab-and-go options. Breakfast options include muesli and yoghurt, bircher muesli, chia breakfast bowls and muffins. Sandwiches, bagels, and wraps are on offer for lunch.
The beloved Mexican food truck now has a permanent shop on Lonsdale Street. The menu boasts authentic Mexican flavours with items like tacos, empanadas and gorditas.
Tangy, refreshing frozen yoghurt has arrived on Lonsdale Street. Moo Moo has a big range of frozen yoghurt flavours that can be customised with toppings and sauces.
A third generation Thai eatery serving lunch on weekdays. Dishes are simple but flavourful and include chicken green curry, spicy pumpkin curry and pad thai.
The Farrer location is a long-time favourite, and Fox and Bow has now arrived in the Inner South. Breakfast, brunch, lunch or just a coffee, everything on the menu is a winner.
Whether you’re after a pastry and a coffee or a pizza and a wine, this outdoor garden bar is sure to please. The food is delicious and the scenery is delightful.
Not strictly new, but recently reopened. Milky Lane is back with its loaded burgers, crispy fried chicken and decadent desserts.
Mediterranean food seems to be having a moment in Canberra, and Kivoto’s is another must-eat destination to add to your list. Pair flavourful Greek cuisine with a drop from their impressive wine list.
Sample the flavours of Europe without leaving Canberra. This bistro in the Realm hotel precinct has a stunning interior with an outdoor terrace to match. Visit for lunch or dinner or try their high tea offering.
Another new addition to the Realm precinct is Med, where Lebanese, Turkish and Greek cuisine collide. It’s a hit with carnivores and also offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Wonderburger brings the vintage American diner experience to Canberra. There are 10 different burgers to choose from, plus hot dogs, fried chicken, chips, sides and soft serve.
Fine dining aficionados will love this industrial-style restaurant. It has an ever-changing menu that showcases seasonal local produce.
Visit Pialligo’s newest dining destination for farmhouse-style share plates. Enjoy produce from the farm as well as regional growers.
Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo
Three Mills has locations spread across Canberra, and now Woden Valley residents and workers can get their fix. Enjoy coffee, pastries, freshly baked bread and more.
Torrens shops is quickly becoming a foodie haven. Saint Elmo is a deli and coffee shop that sells freshly baked goods, a curated selection of meats and cheeses, fresh pasta and sauces.
Two Before Ten is another Canberra favourite, and it has now landed in the Molonglo Valley. Visit for coffee, breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Stop by the Spit Shack food truck at Weston Classic Car Wash for smokey barbeque fare. The menu includes rolls, buns, fries, hot dogs and more.
Gungahlin residents can now get their fix of frozen custard concretes. Choose from one of the delicious flavours or mix it up with different sauces, fudges, nuts, fruits, and toppings.
The Bakehouse has reopened under new management and their fresh menu is bursting with delicious options. Pick up a coffee or raspberry matcha latte and treat yourself to some comfort food.
Love potato? Whether you’re after a quick snack or a filling meal, GoTato offers crinkle cut chips, sweet potato fries, potato scallops, waffle fries, potato tots and hot dogs.
The newest CocoNine restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday. Get all your Thai favourites including salads, curries, noodles, stir fries and more. There is also a vegan section of the menu.
If you can barely summon the energy to venture out for coffee in the morning, you’re in luck. Kickstart Espresso has opened a drive-thru coffee shop in Belconnen. In addition to your caffeine fix, you can also pick up smoothies, toasties, muffins and more.
This suburban gem offers pick-up and delivery. Choose from traditional options and modern Aussie favourites (chooks and bacon pizza, anyone?).
A new family-friendly pub from the team behind The Knox Made in Watson. They showcase local produce through their menu which includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks.
A modern takeaway shop with a menu that’s regularly updated. Past items have included crispy pork ribs, laksa, authentic mapo tofu, and Chinese sausage fried rice.
This ramen bar has a plant-based menu that features tofu, Japanese sweet potato and seasonal vegetables. They also have an extensive menu of non-alcoholic drinks.
This all-you-can-eat Korean buffet includes self-service bars for hotpot, cupbap, and fried rice, as well as other choices like ramen and noodles, and unlimited drinks.
Open seven days a week, Aby Coffee Couse have coffee, muffins, pastries and sandwiches.
Tuggeranong
L’épi opened its Kambah store towards the end of last year, and it’s become a firm favourite of residents. They make fresh bread, pretzels, pastries, cakes and more.
Brodburger is iconically Canberran, and it’s now easily available to southside residents. From traditional burgers to salmon, lamb, and veg, there’s something for everyone.
Dine in or takeaway from Fricken Chicken in Tuggeranong. In addition to their famous fried chicken, they also have a children’s playground and coeliac safe fried chicken.
Ureshii opened last year and has been satisfying Tuggeranong’s Japanese cravings. Tasty lunch bowls, sushi, udon noodle soup, gyoza and katsu chicken all feature on the menu.
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The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) across the province.
This follows recent incidents, including the alleged rape of a seven-year-old girl at Bergview College in Matatiele, and the recent judgment in the Timothy Omotoso case, in which the accused was found not guilty.
Televangelist Omotoso was acquitted in the Gqeberha High Court on 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, racketeering, human trafficking, and other crimes.
These events have left many survivors and citizens feeling disheartened.
In response to the GBVF incidents, particularly the case in Matatiele, the Ministry of Police has deployed urgent and coordinated interventions. These include intensified law enforcement efforts and the deployment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit to assist with the investigations.
The Department of Social Development has also stepped in to provide psychosocial support to the victim and her family.
In a statement issued on Monday, the provincial government said Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane had reached out to the family to offer reassurance and reaffirm government’s commitment to pursuing justice.
National support was also extended, with the Minister of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, and Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta visiting the family to provide encouragement.
The provincial government said communities across South Africa, and the Eastern Cape in particular, have long been grappling the devastating impact of GBV, a persistent scourge that continues to disproportionately affect women and children.
It noted that the recent incidents serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of young girls and boys, and the ongoing threat of violence that shadows many lives.
Mabuyane underscored the severity of the situation, saying that the provincial government recognises the gravity of these crimes and views the interventions as essential to “our broader efforts to protect vulnerable groups and ensure that justice is served”.
Mabuyane urged victims and their families not to suffer in silence, calling on anyone who has experienced or witnessed GBVF to report these crimes to law enforcement.
“We understand the courage it takes to come forward [and] we are here to walk that difficult journey with you. Government has systems in place to provide both psychosocial support and legal assistance to survivors,” the Premier said.
Mabuyane called on communities not to lose faith in the justice system, adding that “the fight against GBVF cannot be won overnight, nor can it be won without public participation”.
While acknowledging the frustration that arises when justice is delayed or denied, Mabuyane emphasised the importance of continued engagement with the justice system.
“We must continue to push for accountability, protection, and justice.”
The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s resolute commitment to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
He also reiterated that the Eastern Cape Provincial Government will continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, and community structures to ensure that “no victim is left behind and no perpetrator escapes accountability”.
“In the face of heinous crimes, it is understandable that public trust in the justice system may be shaken. Justice may sometimes appear slow, and outcomes not always satisfactory, but now more than ever, it is vital that communities remain engaged.
“Cooperation, information-sharing, and support for victims are essential to bringing perpetrators to book. Losing faith risks creating a culture of impunity. The Eastern Cape sends a clear message: Gender-based violence will not be tolerated,” Mabuyane said.
The provincial government remains steadfast in its commitment to working with all stakeholders to create safer, more inclusive and just communities across the province. – SAnews.gov.za
Seattle – A 38-year-old member of the Lummi Nation will appear in federal court this afternoon charged with illegal firearms possession and two violations of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Joel David Ridley was arrested by Lummi Nation Police on February 23, 2025. Police responded to reports of gunshots and encountered Ridley with a dead eagle in his SUV.
According to the criminal complaint, a witness on the Lummi Reservation was walking his dog when he heard a gunshot. As he walked home, the witness heard a second shot and saw a person pick up an eagle from the ground. As the witness was on the phone with police, he saw another eagle fall from a tree on his property. The eagle was badly injured. Police captured the surviving eagle and later transported it to the Humane Society.
Shortly after meeting with the witness, police encountered an SUV in the area that matched the description provided by the reporting party. The vehicle quickly turned into a driveway. A records check revealed the vehicle belonged to Ridley. When police responded to the residence, they observed a dead eagle in the back seat of Ridley’s vehicle. Officers subsequently spoke with Ridley in the driveway and arrested him.
Police obtained a search warrant for Ridley’s vehicle. Inside, officers found a dead eagle and a .22 caliber Savage rifle concealed between the rear seats. Ridely is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2003 conviction for Assault in the First Degree in Whatcom County Superior Court.
Both eagles were taken to the Washington State Humane Society in Bellingham and found to have suffered gunshot wounds. The surviving eagle was too injured to recover and was euthanized. Both eagles were judged to be juvenile bald eagles.
While the Lummi Tribe is permitted to possess, distribute, and transport bald or golden eagles found dead within Indian Country, the permit does not authorize the taking of eagles by gunshot, poison, or trapping.
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a $100,000 fine.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Lummi Nation Police Department and the FBI.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee. AUSA Lee serves as a Tribal Liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
TLANTA – Five individuals have been charged in the Northern District of Georgia with firearms-related offenses during a multi-agency immigration enforcement operation in metro-Atlanta during the past week. The operations involved coordinated investigations led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable support from several local law enforcement partners. In addition to the individuals charged federally, law enforcement seized more than a dozen firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition in connection with the operations.
“Our office is proud to support our law enforcement partners in this effort and other enforcement initiatives to protect our communities and safeguard our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. “This initiative sends a strong message to those engaged in criminal activity, whether regarding immigration-related or firearms offenses, that the ongoing and determined coordinated efforts of our federal and local law enforcement partners will achieve measurable results in making our communities safer.”
“The successful enforcement actions taken during this multi-agency operation underscore HSI’s unwavering commitment to upholding immigration laws and targeting illegal aliens allegedly possessing and trafficking in firearms,” said Steven N. Schrank, special agent in charge of HSI Atlanta, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “By leveraging our partnerships and resources, we are identifying and apprehending those who exploit our immigration system to engage in criminal activities that threaten public safety and national security.”
“ATF along with our federal law enforcement partners will utilize all resources to investigate firearms trafficking by transnational criminal organizations and cartels,” said Special Agent in Charge Benjamin Gibbons. “The success of these investigative efforts could not be accomplished without cohesive partnerships, which keep our communities safe.”
“The DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, are sending a clear message to the Mexican drug cartels and their criminal associates, that keeping our communities safe is our highest priority,” said Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division.
“FBI Atlanta is dedicated to supporting our federal partners in achieving our mutual objective of ensuring the safety of our communities,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This case clearly illustrates the success that can be achieved when federal agencies unite their resources and expertise to combat violent criminals.”
According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court: From March 24 to April 2, 2025, federal law enforcement agencies conducted a series of enforcement operations targeting individuals allegedly committing firearms and other violations, including those illegally present in the United States. During the operation, law enforcement seized 13 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Significantly, resulting investigations revealed that many of the firearms were bound for Mexico.
The following defendants have been charged in connection with the operations:
Lucio Hernandez Mora, 45, of Riverdale, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. On April 1, 2025, special agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Department of Homeland Security, Enforcement and Removal Operations, executed a search warrant on a residence in Riverdale, Georgia and encountered Hernandez Mora, an illegal alien. During a search of the residence, agents located two firearms, allegedly belonging to Hernandez Mora.
Cameron Vick, 22, of Atlanta, GA was indicted by a federal grand jury on nine counts of making a false statement to a firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of firearms. Vick’s purchases included two belt-fed M249S rifles, believed to be destined for Mexico. He was arrested on March 27, 2025.
Bernice Macias Montes, 31, of Atlanta, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with making a false statement to a firearms dealer in connection with the acquisition of firearms. ATF agents seized five firearms during a search of her residence on March 27, 2025.
Teresa Gonzales-Hoppo, 56, of Lithia Springs, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with possession of a firearm by an alien unlawfully present in the United States. On March 27, 2025, ATF agents executed a search warrant on Gonzales-Hoppo’s residence and located a firearm, allegedly belonging to Gonzales-Hoppo.
Carlos Sambrano, 28, of Rex, GA, was charged in a Criminal Complaint with unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. ATF agents located seven firearms in his residence during the execution of a March 27, 2025, search warrant.
Hernandez Mora made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Linda T. Walker on April 1, 2025. Gonzales-Hoppo made her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge John K. Larkins, III on March 28, 2025. Vick, Macias Montes and Sambrano also made their initial appearances before Judge Larkins on March 27, 2025.
Members of the public are reminded that the Criminal Complaints and Indictment only contain charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Secret Service, Georgia State Patrol, Sandy Springs Police Department, Doraville Police Department, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton County Police Department, South Fulton Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Gwinnett County Police Department, Clarkston Police Department and East Point Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys with the Northern District of Georgia, including those assigned to the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), provided valuable support for these operations.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The specific mission of the David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force (Atlanta Strike Force) is to eliminate transnational organized crime syndicates and major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the Northern District of Georgia. To accomplish this mission, the Atlanta Strike Force will target these organizations’ leaders, focusing on targets designated as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets, Regional Priority Organization Targets, and their associates. The Atlanta Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, DEA, FBI, HSI, USMS, USPIS, and IRS, as well as numerous state and local agencies; and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Phishing emails related to DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the emails concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012. Issued at HKT 19:08
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd. relating to a fraudulent website, which has been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Octopus Cards Limited relating to phishing messages and fraudulent websites. The relevant stored value facility (SVF) licensee has reported the case to the HKMA.
The fraudulent websites reported by the SVF licensee known at the time are as follows: hxxps[:]//octupos[.]top/hk hxxps[:]//octopos[.]top/hk
The HKMA wishes to remind the public that anyone who has provided his or her personal information or account credentials, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the messages and the websites concerned, should contact the relevant SVF licensee, and report to the Police or contact the Anti-Deception Coordination Centre of the Police at 18222.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, working with law enforcement partners from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Virginia State Police, apprehended an illegal Salvadoran national and documented member of the notorious MS-13 street gang wanted in El Salvador for extortion, blackmail and terrorist affiliation. Officers from ICE Washington, D.C.; agents from FBI Washington, D.C.; DEA Washington, D.C. and officials from VSP arrested Silvia Lorena Bonilla-De Jandres, 40, in Alexandria, Feb. 25.
“Silvia Lorena Bonilla-De Jandres is not only the member of a transnational criminal enterprise known for violence, she has also apparently attempted to flee justice in her home country and hide out in Northern Virginia,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russ Hott. “We will not allow our Washington, D.C. and Virginia communities to become safe havens for the world’s bad actors. ICE Washington, D.C. remains dedicated to our mission of prioritizing public safety and protecting our residents by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders.”
U.S. Border Patrol arrested Bonilla after she illegally entered the United States, Feb. 21, 2016, near Rio Grande Valley, Texas. USBP placed Bonilla into removal proceedings. Authorities in El Salvador issued a warrant for Bonilla’s arrest, Aug. 28, 2017, charging her with aggravated extortion, blackmail and terrorist affiliation due to her documented MS-13 membership. Interpol issued a red notice for Bonilla, Nov. 24, 2017.
On July 11, 2025, a Department of Justice immigration judge ordered Bonilla removed from the United States to El Salvador.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROWashington.
Annapolis District RCMP is investigating two armed robberies that occurred in Middleton.
On April 5, at approximately 11 a.m., officers responded to a report of a robbery at a restaurant on Commercial St. And at approximately 2:25 p.m., officers received another report of a robbery at the same location.
Investigators learned that in both instances, a man wearing a mask entered the property and demanded money while brandishing a knife.
No physical injuries were reported.
The man believed to be responsible for both robberies is approximately 5-foot-10 and left the area on foot. He was wearing several layers of clothing, including a black hooded sweatshirt, a light-coloured hooded sweatshirt, and a dark jacket. He was also wearing dark jeans and brown-grey Blundstones.
RCMP Forensic Identification Services is assisting Annapolis District RCMP with the ongoing investigations. Officers are investigating possible links between these incidents and a robbery that occurred on April 3.
Anyone who recognizes the man or who has information about these robberies is asked to contact Annapolis District RCMP at 902-825-2000. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ACT Government will fund a four-year elective surgery plan as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget.
The ACT Government is resourcing a four-year elective surgery plan to deliver 60,000 elective surgeries and to expand operating theatre capacity in public health services.
Despite the challenges impacting elective surgeries in recent years, Canberra Health Services is on track to perform a record number of elective surgeries this financial year.
Additional funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget will further support the territory-wide surgery teams to continue this work across the ACT’s hospitals.
More endoscopies will be delivered thanks to the recent expansion and upgrade of the endoscopy suites at North Canberra Hospital.
Additional theatre capacity at Canberra Hospital in the new Critical Services Building will be essential to improve timely access to emergency surgeries and increase the total capacity for elective surgeries performed at Canberra Hospital.
Increased operating theatre sessions during evenings and weekends, and more surgical inpatient beds to support growing emergency surgery demand are a critical part of this investment.
The Government has also committed to deliver an additional 300 cataract surgeries through partnerships with private facilities.
The ACT Budget will support services and initiatives across the public hospital network, including acute care for older people across our public hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation at the University of Canberra Hospital, services for critically ill newborns and expanded maternity services.
Total investment in health next year is a record $2.6 billion. This will deliver more health services, infrastructure, support for the health workforce, and $52.7 million will be allocated to support the elective surgery plan.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The 2024-25 ACT Budget includes funding for the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.
The ACT Government will provide funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to continue the planning and development of a new Canberra Convention and Entertainment Centre.
The centre will form part of an events and entertainment precinct proposed for the south-east section of the CBD that includes the current convention centre site and the Canberra Olympic Pool site.
Master-planning for the new precinct will see concept designs developed for an integrated convention and entertainment centre for live music, events and performances.
The ACT Government will invest in site investigations and concept design options for the replacement of the ageing Canberra Olympic Pool to provide aquatic facilities for the city’s growing population in Commonwealth Park.
The ACT Government will continue to work with the Australian Government under the National Capital Investment Framework and through the Urban Precincts and Partnerships Program to progress infrastructure projects such as the Convention and Entertainment Centre.
As Canberra’s population nears half a million people, this project is important for the local tourism and business sector, ensuring Canberra is a more attractive tour option for live music and entertainment.
Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct update
Further funding will be provided in the 2024-25 ACT Budget to progress development of the Bruce Sports, Health, and Education Precinct.
The ACT Government intends to partner with the Commonwealth Government to develop a mixed-use urban renewal precinct, which will include housing, commercial, hospitality and retail opportunities to support sport, health and education infrastructure projects.
Through the 2024-25 Budget, the Government will also progress planning for the new Northside Hospital, a renewed CIT campus and a new stadium.
This work will complement the Commonwealth Government’s AIS precinct renewal announced in the recent Federal Budget.
The Government will consider options for the development, including the optimal delivery model and the declaration of an urban renewal site.
This declaration will help coordinate ACT Government Directorates and agencies to work together on the precinct planning.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Lyric Theatre concept design – Vernon Circle
The ACT Government is funding the next stage of the Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation in the 2024–25 Budget.
Major Projects Canberra will collaborate an industry partner which will be engaged through an early contractor involvement (ECI) delivery model.
They will work in partnership to complete the project.
A two-stage process will begin in July to confirm the industry partner.
Construction approvals for the redevelopment will be sought in 2025.
The expanded Canberra Theatre Centre will enhance Civic as a live entertainment and hospitality destination.
This will provide opportunities for Canberrans to come together and connect, and will lead to more jobs.
A transformed Canberra Theatre Centre
The Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation will create a performing arts centre of national and international significance. It will include:
a new 2,000-seat lyric theatre (suitable for musicals, opera and ballet)
a refurbishment of The Playhouse and Canberra Theatre
expanding the studio theatre for flexible use by local artists for intimate shows
improved accessibility and connections to the precinct
hospitality offerings, including bars.
Project benefits
This project offers benefits for the whole community.
First Nations Connection to Country are celebrated and acknowledged through design.
Canberra will be able to attract and enjoy world-renowned musicals, circus shows, ballet and opera without the need for expensive interstate travel.
Canberra will have a world-class theatre and cultural precinct.
More visitors to the ACT will grow the local economy.
The city centre will be enhanced as a lively destination for dining and entertainment – day and night.
The project will create more jobs in the arts, hospitality and construction. With more career pathways for emerging creatives and technicians, more arts workers will remain in Canberra.
The Centre will be a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
The revitalised Canberra Theatre Centre will feature sustainable, green-star all-electric design.
The project will generate more opportunities, networks and audiences for Canberra’s performing arts sector.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The ACT’s PACER teams provide acute mental health assessment and care services in the community.
Funding in the ACT 2024–25 Budget will help Canberrans access mental health help earlier and more easily.
The initiatives funded aim to support Canberrans to remain healthy in the community.
This will help services provide support when and where people need it and reduce demand on the ACT hospital system.
Funding has been allocated over the next four years for:
the continuation of the second Police, Ambulance, and Clinician Early Response (PACER) team to provide acute mental health assessment and care services in the community
the co-design of a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth mental health service
the continuation of community child and youth mental health support programs, including
MindMap Online Navigation Portal
WOKE
Stepping Stones
Youth Mental Health Promotion program
staged implementation of approximately 10 accommodation support packages as part of the introduction of the Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative
delivery of a more holistic approach in the Step-Up-Step Down at-home program, to better address the factors in someone’s life which cause distress
additional funding for the Detention Exit Community Outreach program to provide transitional mental health and life skills support for people with a mental illness returning to the community.
When people have early access to mental health support, they are more likely to stay healthy, engaged and connected.
This funding will help ensure the continuation of services that currently support Canberrans facing mental health challenges, allowing them to get the help they need in the community, rather than in hospital.
The investment in tailored youth mental services and culturally responsive mental health services for First Nations people will help bolster the health and wellbeing of those in crisis.
The PACER model, particularly, has proven very successful in addressing mental health crises, offering faster assessments, connecting individuals with vital community resources, and reducing the strain on emergency response teams.
This not only helps those who need it most but also helps ensure a safer, more supportive Canberra.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Ngunnawal artist Bradley Mapiva Brown’s artwork is entitled Ngala Dhawura.
As Canberrans enter Canberra Hospital’s new Welcome Hall, they will be met by two new artworks by local Aboriginal artists.
These commissioned works acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as Traditional Custodians of Canberra and the region.
They also recognise the contributions of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in the ACT.
The Critical Services Building
The Welcome Hall is part of the hospital’s new Critical Services Building.
It replaces the hospital’s reception in Building 2.
The Critical Services Building will open to the public in August 2024.
Considered design
In designing the building, the ACT Government engaged closely with the Ngunnawal people and Canberra’s local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
This has helped ensure it is a welcoming, safe space for these communities.
Healing Journey
Lynnice Church is a Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi artist.
Her artwork Healing Journey is displayed at the Welcome Hall entrance.
It includes 24,073 colourful metal discs. Each is attached by hand to a metal frame that stretches across the front and back entrance of the hall.
The artwork acknowledges Canberra Hospital’s role as a place for healing.
It depicts health journeys, and the roles family, community, specialists and health staff play in supporting patients.
Ngala Dhawura
Ngunnawal artist Bradley Mapiva Brown’s artwork is entitled Ngala Dhawura.
The wooden sculpture represents the connection to sacred woodlands of Ngunnawal country, where the Critical Services Building stands.
The woodlands are a healing place for the Ngunnawal people. They hold many cultural resources, such as traditional tools and bush medicines that have long used to maintain health and well-being.
Ngala Dhawura is located above a corridor connecting the new building to the existing hospital.
A welcoming, safe space
Art is an important part of the building’s design and will feature throughout.
In addition to the artwork, design features of the Critical Services Building include:
An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lounge: a first for Canberra Hospital with outdoor space and a yarning circle.
Strong indoor / outdoor connection: large windows around the hospital offer views of the surrounding landscape and frame areas of cultural significance.
New greenspace and gardens: outdoor access is easier with new gardens and courtyards, including accessible dedicated patient spaces.
The hospital’s new main entrance
Ngala Dhawura
Lynnice Church’s artwork adorns both entrances of the Welcome Hall.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The plan sets out the next stage of work for the Territory’s transition to an all-electric city over the next 20 years.
The ACT Government is releasing new Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) as part of its investment in an all-electric, zero-emissions future for Canberra.
The plan includes a range of Government commitments to support Canberrans through the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy.
The Integrated Energy Plan 2024–2030 sets out the next stage of work for the Territory’s transition to an all-electric city over the next 20 years.
It builds on the ACT’s success in reaching 100 percent renewable electricity in 2020.
It aims to ensure all Canberrans benefit from the transition, not just those most able to afford the necessary changes involved.
Energy bill savings
As well as being the cheapest, most effective pathway to net-zero emissions for the ACT, electrification can also bring significant energy bill savings.
A household that swaps gas cooking, heating and hot water for efficient electric appliances can save around $735 per year – or even more with the addition of solar.
The Sustainable Housing Scheme
Households needing support to make such changes can take advantage of the Sustainable Household Scheme.
Almost 20,000 households – 10 per cent of Canberra’s households – have accessed the scheme, which supports people with loans to electrify their homes and forms of transport. Those who have accessed loans to date have already saved an estimated $43 million on their energy bills.
Equipping community and public housing
The ACT Government will electrify all feasible community and public housing properties in the ACT by the end of 2030.
This work has already started, and will continue to be a priority, along with continued energy efficiency improvements to properties.
Further support for low-income homeowners
A new Community Partnership Electrification Program will be delivered over two years, to support vulnerable and low-income homeowners.
This will cover upfront costs of energy efficiency upgrades and electrification, for approximately 350 low-income households.
Assistance for apartment owners
The Integrated Energy Plan will also support apartment residents, who may face extra challenges in electrification.
A new Retrofit Readiness program will offer free advice and electrification planning for those living in multi-unit buildings, such as apartments.
To help reduce obstacles for apartment residents, the IEP will also deliver strata reform work to identify and resolve regulatory barriers to electrification upgrades in multi-unit buildings.
Upskilling a workforce
An appropriately skilled workforce is crucial to supporting the energy transition.
The IEP will also target training subsidies to priority trades that support the energy transition. It will also increase subsidies for the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Technician.
Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) will host Australia’s first TAFE Centre of Excellence, focusing on electric vehicles.
ACT Infrastructure Plan updates
The ACT Government is also updating the ACT Infrastructure Plan, outlining future investments in climate action, energy and environment infrastructure for Canberra’s future.
This plan outlines how the Government will provide energy infrastructure to support greater electricity usage, the electrification of Government assets as well as water and natural environment protection.
Both the IEP and updated Infrastructure Plan continue the ACT Government’s commitment to transition to net-zero emissions by 2045.
Find out more
Learn more about the ACT’s Pathway to Electrification and read the first Integrated Energy Plan on the Everyday Climate Choices website.
To read the ACT Infrastructure Plan refresh for climate action, energy and environment infrastructure, visit the Built for CBR website.
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A small and humble café serving delicious food and superb specialty coffee! If you’re looking for the perfect spot to stop off and enjoy a morning coffee before work, then Barrio is your café. You can even take home their roasted beans or homemade hot sauce!
Kopiku is an Indonesian style café located at the O’Connor shops. Blending Asian and Australian influences together why not try this unique place and try out the coffee. You can also grab some Nasi Goreng, Mee Goreng and much more.
The perfect finish line for those running or walking around the lake. Sit back and enjoy the view, Curio is located next to Blundells Cottage, nestled among the mature, shady trees.
Want vintage charm meets modern flavour? Try Early Editions range of coffees and organic lattes. Grab a quick coffee or relax and enjoy the weekend with your friends.
Looking for a bakery that offers some of Canberra’s best pastries, artisanal bread, and tarts? You need to check out Silo. Renowned for its high-quality food and excellent service, Silo is a popular choice among locals. Stop by for a coffee and a tart, and don’t forget your loaf of bread for the week!
Enjoy Ona coffee and Instagram-worthy food at East Row. Visit their stylish, industrial café for a meal and coffee before work or during lunch. They’re open 7 days and also offer catering.
Looking for a place to sit outdoors with views of lush trees and gardens? The Bakesmith, owned by the former owner of Le Bon Melange, is the ideal spot to enjoy coffee and a delicious French pastry.
Coffee with a Nordic twist? Try Bedst light, bright roasted coffees. They specialise in coffees from the Nordic region but also showcase coffee from all over the world. A worthwhile trip to check out this niche and popular offering.
Need a coffee on the go? Flatheads not only serves up delicious fish and chips, but also a yummy Will & Co coffee.
Grab a coffee, bring your dog and hang out with friends in the small but inviting outdoor area. A popular spot for locals on weekends serving Redbrick coffee.
DOP is a small but mighty coffee shop serving up authentic Italian Street food and artisan coffee. It’s hole in the wall vibe is hard to miss with the lines of people waiting for a cup of their morning brew!
Start your morning feeling superfine! Grab a coffee and specialty toastie on the way to work. Superfine is a popular morning spot known for its friendly staff and good coffee.
Café by day, function space by night, Deakin & Me is a local fave and beloved by all. Grab a coffee and choose a sandwich from the selection in the deli cabinet.
In Canberra’s industrial area and needing a pick-me-up? Pellegrino’s Café is the perfect spot to grab a toastie and takeaway.
Not only does the Cupping Room roast award winning lattes, but they also have a cookbook! Last year this Canberra local café won the Best Flat White in the Wotif awards, so it’s worth trying out.
Living or working in Kingston and want a great coffee, or an even greater strawberry matcha? Good Neighbour offers delicious baked goods and a huge range of iced matcha’s.
B-side is home to a mix of European comfort foods, tasty coffees, and wines for the night. Wander down Lonsdale Street with which a cup of this European coffee blend.
Get your award-winning coffee straight from the source. The Ona Coffee House offers those in Fyshwick specialty coffee and a fresh, seasonal menu for breakfast and lunch.
Want amazing specialty coffees, artisan sourdough, and pastries crafted to perfection? Sonoma is worth getting in early for. Enjoy their range of baked goods and coffees.
After a cosy warm pub vibe for your morning coffee? Edgar’s Inn has an awarding winning outdoor beer garden and beautiful scenery to enjoy.
Enjoy a coffee and some delicious cake at Super Sweet. Their selection of foods is mouthwatering.
Want a rainbow salad bagel with your coffee? Nicky’s has you covered! You can also grab a French toast tiramisu which is made with their Redbrick coffee.
Gungahlin
Escape to France without leaving Canberra! This French patisserie will serve you up a cup of coffee alongside a French treat.
Serving up a house cold brew and many more delicious coffee choices this isn’t one to miss.
This hole in the wall café is proud to deliver local and quality ingredients within their great coffee.
After a café that loves to experiment with flavours and try out new coffee styles? The Usual is always adding new and exciting things to its specials, think Caramello cold brews, Taro lattes and so much more.
Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo
In Woden for the day and need to grab a coffee? Happy Hub café will serve up great coffee and meals with a smile.
On the outskirts of Canberra and need a local comfortable café? Check out Pitch Black Café for a great community vibe.
Village Café offers a good cuppa with a friendly smile. They make in-house jams, and their menu includes produce from their kitchen garden. Come for fresh, good-quality food and coffee.
Looking for the perfect cup of coffee and a sweet treat? Find Space Kitchen in the Woden precinct nestled amongst office buildings. A busy café offering breakfast and lunch and a range of specialty cakes and sweet treats.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Eight new mowers will be added to the city’s mowing teams.
The ACT Government is investing in essential city services to support new recycling infrastructure and Canberra’s growing horticultural maintenance needs.
The ACT and Australian Governments will jointly fund the construction of a new recycling facility for Canberra.
It will be built on the same Hume site that was extensively damaged by fire in December 2022, as well as on the adjoining block.
The facility will feature new technology to expand capacity to sort and process glass, plastic, paper and cardboard.
This will increase resource recovery by:
creating higher-quality recycled products
reducing the amount of waste ending up in landfill.
Funding will allow work to begin, with a contract expected to be awarded in mid‑2024.
New community infrastructure and maintenance
The 2024-25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the city.
The investment will deliver new toilets at Evatt Shops and Ruth Park Playground in Coombs, an upgraded toilet at Mawson Shops, and support the delivery of a new toilet near Bizant Street in Amaroo as part of the Yerrabi Pond Upgrade.
Budget funding will drive renewal of the city’s playgrounds and skateparks, including safety improvement works, mulch and rubber soft fall top ups, and a program of regular audits and inspections.
The Government will respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
Other initiatives include funding for:
master planning of upgrades to the Mugga Lane and Hume Resource Management Centres
upgrades to dams
further security upgrades.
Funding will allow work to begin, with a contract expected to be awarded in mid‑2024.
FOGO pilot expanded
Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.
This will generate useful information on how households in different types of multi-unit developments use the service.
The pilot currently services 5,300 households in Belconnen, Bruce, Cook and Macquarie.
An additional 1,150 units will be added, increasing the pilot by more than 20 per cent.
Mowing and horticulture maintenance
The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.
Through this Budget a temporarily expanded city maintenance crew will become permanent.
The expansion aimed to respond to short-term pressures resulting from weather conditions. With these pressures continuing, the Government is reinforcing resources in the city’s mowing, in-house traffic management and tree management teams.
Ten full-time positions and eight new mowers will be added to the city’s mowing teams.
In the low season, mowing crews will help with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.
The Budget will also fund the continuation of a 10-person in-house traffic management crew. This crew provides traffic management control for Canberra’s mowing, litter picking, weed control and tree maintenance teams.
Their work has helped increase the safety of roadside workers. It has also helped reduce inconvenience for both workers and road and path users during maintenance activities.
The ACT Government has exceeded its target of planting 54,000 trees across the ACT from 2021 to 2024.
Forecasts predict over 60,000 new trees will be added to the city’s tree canopy during this period.
Staff will continue to be funded to care for Canberra’s trees and continue planting more trees in an increasingly sophisticated way, drawing from Connecting Nature Connecting People initiative and other research and insights.
Budget investment over four years will continue support for volunteer park care groups to nurture and restore local parks and nature reserves, with a particular focus on weed management in the first year.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Making it cheaper and easier to fly into Canberra is a priority. Photo courtesy VisitCanberra
Budget funding will help build Canberra’s international business and trade connections and grow the city’s visitor economy.
This will continue to diversify the economy through the local tourism industry.
It will create more local jobs and make it easier for international visitors to come to Canberra.
More affordable air travel
One priority is making it easier and cheaper to fly into Canberra.
The Government will continue to invest in the Aviation Stimulus Fund to attract more direct domestic and international flights to and from the city.
Investments made through this fund in 2023 gave the ACT economy a significant boost.
Driving growth in international markets
The Government is committed to bringing more leisure visitors to Canberra.
Enhanced marketing, trade links and continued representation in Singapore, South-east Asia and India will help facilitate this.
The United States is currently the ACT’s strongest international visitor market. This makes it a key growth market for many Canberra businesses.
Building on last year’s trade mission, Budget investment will target in-market activity to provide growth opportunities in the US for the ACT’s tourism, trade and business sectors.
Funding will also help promote Canberra tourism in China.
The 2024–25 Budget will support the many Canberra‑based businesses with existing connections to these international markets, as well as those first entering them.
Quality events in Canberra
Canberra continues to attract quality international events.
Budget funding will bring the British and Irish Lions Tour to Canberra on 9 July 2025, to play the ACT Brumbies.
The British and Irish Lions Tour is the biggest rugby event outside of the Rugby World Cup.
Improved signage
Funding will improve signage around Canberra, including:
in ACT’s parks and nature reserves – a key drawcard for tourism
entrance signage along the Barton Highway – to improve the experience for those arriving in Canberra
wayfinding and other signage for major events like Floriade and the Enlighten Festival.
Recognising Canberra
The ACT Government will continue to sponsor the Canberra Region Tourism Awards.
These allow the local tourism sector to be recognised nationally and elevate Canberra as a tourist destination.
The Brand Canberra program will also be supported to continue promoting the city as a great place to live work and study.
All these initiatives will continue to build Canberra’s profile as a tourism, trade and business destination.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
All ACT public school students will have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
The ACT Government is working towards a consistent approach across the public school system.
From 2025, it will start implementing all eight recommendations of the Final Report of the Literacy and Numeracy EducationExpert Panel.
The Panel’s overarching message was that to achieve equity and excellence in education, ACT public schools need a system-wide approach to teaching and learning.
The 2024–25 ACT Budget will support this with funding to implement all recommendations.
A new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives – called Strong Foundations – will ensure all students at ACT public schools have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
Under Strong Foundations, Canberra families will have access to:
evidence-informed and consistent teaching practices in every classroom
common assessments, including a year 1 phonics test
advice and resources for parents, to support their children with literacy and numeracy
multitiered systems of support for students in every public school.
Centralised support for teachers
Strong Foundations will offer more system support, to help reduce teachers’ workloads.
It will also allow school staff to collaborate and move between ACT public schools, without needing to learn new systems and ways of working.
Teachers can also access additional teaching resources, such as lesson planning support.
More resources and equipment
From the start of 2025, each public school classroom from kindergarten to year 2 will receive additional funding for system-approved literacy and numeracy teaching materials and equipment.
This will include decodable readers and maths resources.
The full four-year implementation plan for Strong Foundations will be shared with community later this year.
As part of this four-year plan, the Expert Panel will be invited to undertake an annual independent review of implementation.
It will report directly on progress to the Minister for Education and Youth Affairs.
Strong Foundations focuses on supporting students up to year 10.
Support for college students
From 2025 the Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS) will introduce new Bridging Literacy and Bridging Numeracy courses to support students in years 11 and 12.
These courses are designed to support students who need additional targeted support. They will help them work towards the minimum standards of the Australian Core Skills Framework level 3 by the end of their schooling studies.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
More than 866,000m2 of land is scheduled for release over the next five years.
The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024-25 through to 2028-29 aims to provide more housing for Canberrans, where they want to live.
The Plan outlines the land releases that will enable 21,422 new homes to be built.
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the Government will cater for this growth through additional housing in new suburbs such as:
Macnamara in Ginninderry
Jacka in Gungahlin
Denman Prospect, Whitlam
the future Molonglo Town Centre in the Molonglo Valley.
More than 866,000m2 of land is scheduled for release over the next five years to support the growing population, anticipated new homes and the services required for our community.
This will include land release for a diverse range of housing from single-residential through to townhouses and multi-unit homes.
The Indicative Land Release Program also includes mixed use, commercial, industrial and community uses with close to 97,000m2 of this land to be released in 2024-25.
In particular, the 2024-25 land release includes sites with requirements for 608 dedicated community, public, or affordable homes.
Through this plan, the Government will continue to work the private sector to be able to meet ambitious housing goals and support further growth. Developments in existing areas on privately-owned land will continue to play a role in developing this city.
The district strategies, recently released as part of the ACT’s new planning system, help to inform where growth can still occur and where the ACT Government could intervene to facilitate and direct this growth.
Working towards delivering 70 per cent of new housing within the ACT’s existing urban footprint, the Government will continue to plan for housing and land release around key precincts, rapid transport corridors and shops close to services.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget will address domestic, family and sexual violence, including coercive control.
The ACT Government is taking further steps to prevent and respond to domestic, family and sexual violence.
Funding in the 2024-25 ACT Budget will address domestic, family and sexual violence, including coercive control.
Throughout the ACT and Australia, incidents of domestic violence continue to increase. Frontline services must be well-equipped to respond.
This Budget includes a coercive control package, to increase understanding and improve responses to this type of domestic violence.
The package will provide training to frontline agencies, such as ACT Policing and the Courts, on identifying and responding to coercive control.
It will also provide for a public education campaign informed by specialist coercive control expertise.
Alongside this investment, a significant funding boost will be provided to frontline response services. These services do vital work to keep women and families safe.
The Domestic Violence Crisis Service, Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, YWCA, Beryl Women Inc, and Women’s Health Matters will all receive funding boosts.
As first points of support for many people experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, crisis services, refuges and specialist services for men are all vital to address the immediate impact of domestic and family violence and keeping people safe.
This Budget also prioritises behaviour change for perpetrators. Funding for EveryMan will expand their violence prevention programs.
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