Some Canberrans are feeling unsafe in the city centre due to antisocial behaviour, construction, and poor lighting, according to locals and industry groups. The issue was highlighted at an inquiry into the ACT's night-time economy, where ClubsACT blamed challenges on rising methamphetamine use.
The ABC spent a weeknight in Civic, where opinions on safety were divided. One woman said, 'Past 9pm, I would say probably not.' Others called for more lights or police presence, citing construction barriers and road closures that reduce visibility.
Canberra Business Chamber chief executive Greg Harford noted that while overall patronage is holding up, some people are concerned about safety due to antisocial behaviour, including yelling and screaming. He also cited poorly maintained buildings, graffiti, rubbish, and lighting issues.
ACT Minister for Police and Crime Prevention Mick Gentleman said the government's crime data does not show the city is unsafe. He noted that wastewater analysis shows the ACT has the second lowest methamphetamine use per capita, pushing back on narratives from the inquiry.
Peter Barclay, owner of King O'Malley's Irish pub for 26 years, challenged the portrayal of Civic as a 'rundown, terrible place,' saying the area is undergoing rapid transformation. He called for more services for rough sleepers and those with drug or mental health issues, noting that poorly lit areas can attract gatherings but are not the root problem.
