Property Council ACT Executive Director Ashlee Berry said the move would boost property sector and broader business community hopes of bringing the CBD back to life and called on other parties to back the pledge.
“We asked for free or subsidised transport and parking on Mondays and Fridays to bring vibrancy back to the CBD and business hubs, and this is a fantastic first step-free public transport Fridays will help revitalise business hubs across Canberra,” Ms Berry said.
“Our election platform called for bold action to boost activity in the CBD, and today’s win on free public transport Fridays shows the government is listening and acting on our powerful advocacy.
“This move reflects the Property Council’s vision for a more vibrant city. Free transport Fridays are part of the bigger picture we pushed for-to make Canberra’s CBD and business hubs thriving once again,” she said.
Ms Berry said there was also a need to further strengthen Canberra’s CBD revitalisation with strategic urban renewal beyond transport improvements.
“Revitalising Canberra’s CBD is about more than free transport-it’s about creating vibrant public spaces, events, and businesses that make the city centre a destination,” Ms Berry said.
“We need to invest in infrastructure that supports tourism and retail, bringing people back to the heart of Canberra.
“Our platform calls for bold urban renewal-transforming our CBD and business hubs into thriving hubs where more people want to live, work, and visit,” she said.
The ACT Property Council is hosting a Leaders’ Debate on 16 October featuring Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Opposition Leader Elizabeth Lee.
