We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples and the Traditional Custodians of Ngunnawal Country, the land on which we meet today. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and also recognise any other people or families with connection to the ACT and Region.
Chris Steel MLA, ACT Treasurer; Minister for Planning and Sustainable Development; Minister for Heritage; Minister for Transport
Minister Steel addressed the Canberra Region Tourism Advisory Forum on the ACT’s economic and urban future. He began by acknowledging Canberra’s strong foundations — one of the world’s most liveable cities, with 35 years of uninterrupted economic growth, 100% renewable electricity, and a highly skilled population.
While he wasn't able to share new tourism funding announcements at this stage, he reinforced the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting tourism and events through broader city-building initiatives.
He emphasised that while some government investments — such as schools, hospitals and transport infrastructure — may not appear directly linked to tourism, they are crucial to maintaining Canberra’s appeal as a destination. A well-planned, connected and liveable city underpins a strong visitor economy.
Minister Steel acknowledged the pressures of population growth, housing affordability and fiscal constraint, but said the government’s long-term approach prioritises both economic stability and liveability — key ingredients for attracting visitors and talent.
Looking ahead, he highlighted several developments of interest to the tourism and events sector, including the new National Convention Centre project and the Thoroughbred Park redevelopment — both set to create new spaces for events, hospitality and cultural experiences.
He closed by reaffirming the government’s commitment to working collaboratively with industry partners to ensure Canberra continues to grow as a vibrant, accessible and welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike.
Scott Lee, ACT Chief Police Officer, on the issues tourism, hospitality and allied sectors need to know prior to the summer holiday season
Scott opened by reaffirming that Canberra remains one of the safest cities in Australia, with ACT Policing committed to maintaining community safety through strong partnerships across government, business and the wider community. He emphasised that many social challenges are not policing issues alone, and require coordinated, compassionate responses — particularly when supporting vulnerable people — to create welcoming and inclusive spaces for locals and visitors alike.
With the summer and festive season approaching, Scott outlined ACT Policing’s SummerSafe campaign, promoting responsible behaviour and personal safety, particularly among young adults in entertainment precincts. The campaign will run across social media, local venues and city spaces, supported by a visible police presence at major events and hospitality hotspots. He encouraged tourism operators and event organisers to share campaign messages and work closely with police to help prevent alcohol-related incidents and keep visitors safe.
Scott also highlighted Operation Retail — a collaboration with businesses to deter theft and antisocial behaviour — and acknowledged the rise in illicit drug use both nationally and within the ACT. He noted that while ACT Policing supports the Government’s health-based drug reforms, there remains zero tolerance for drug trafficking and impaired driving. Partnerships with NSW Police and national agencies continue to target organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Addressing community concerns in Canberra’s north, Scott outlined how multi-agency working groups are improving perceptions of safety through greater engagement and visible policing.
In closing, Scott reiterated ACT Policing’s commitment to collaboration with the tourism and business sectors — encouraging operators to stay connected, report concerns early and work together to keep Canberra welcoming, vibrant and safe for residents and visitors alike.
Question: If someone experiences an issue, there are a few ways they can report it. They can call the police, but there’s also an option to report a crime online now — can you explain how that works?
You can still contact us via the 131 444 number, attend a police station in person to make a report, and now you can also report certain types of crimes online. It’s about giving the community multiple pathways to reach police and making it as convenient as possible for people to share information and seek assistance.
Adam Drinkwell, General Manager Australian Masters Games on the games to be held in Canberra from 18-25 October 2025
Adam highlighted the excitement surrounding the 20th edition of the iconic Australian Masters Games, as the event makes a thrilling return to Canberra. Created by the Confederation of Australian Sport in 1987, the Games are a week-long festival that brings together participants from across Australia and around the world. The event offers an extensive sports and social program, celebrating the joy of sport and camaraderie in a vibrant destination.
With 8,400 participants across 44 sports, the games are projected to inject 10 - 15 million into the local economy
Running from 9–16 October, this year’s Games will attract more than 8,400 participants across 44 sports, from dragon boat racing and football to pickleball and athletics. Masters athletes, generally aged 30 and above, compete without qualification, with the oldest competitor this year aged 95.
Adam emphasised the event’s remarkable growth, with 63% first-time participants, over 6,500 interstate visitors, and more than 900 teams registered. Across 49 venues in the ACT and Queanbeyan, the Games will showcase iconic locations including the National Museum of Australia for the sold-out opening ceremony and the National Botanic Gardens for the closing celebration. Over 500 volunteers are playing a vital role in delivering this large-scale festival.
The Games present significant opportunities for Canberra’s tourism and hospitality sector, with a projected $10–15 million boost to the local economy. Visitors stay an average of six nights, exploring the region’s attractions, wineries, restaurants, and events.
Adam encouraged local businesses to seize the opportunity to be part of this incredible celebration of sport and connection while showcasing Canberra as a vibrant destination. He urged tourism and hospitality operators to keep an eye out for participants, give them a warm welcome, and consider offering tailored experiences to enhance their stay.
Dr David Marshall, Chair of the Leaders Forum highlighted:
The 2025 Canberra Region Tourism Awards will be held on 21 November, be sure to visit the website and get your tickets now.
Congratulations to Fiji Airways who was recently named as one of the top 10 airlines worldwide and to Bungendore who has be awarded the 2025 Top Small Tourism Town in the Canberra Region Top Tourism Town Awards.
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Southern NSW and ACT are holding a Tourism Roundtable for the region on Wednesday 19 November at Old Parliament House. Learn more and get your tickets here: Southern NSW & ACT Tourism Roundtable
The Canberra Business Chamber is hosting a Diplomatic Business Connections Gala Dinner on Friday 17 October. Find out more and get your tickets here: 2025 Diplomatic Business Connections Gala Dinner
Next forum Thursday 6 November 2025.
Speakers will include: Tara Cheyne MLA, ACT Attorney-General, Minister for City and Government Services, Minister for Human Rights, Minister for the Night-Time Economy; Margot McNeill, CEO Canberra Institute of Technology; Qatar Airways (to be confirmed)