ACT Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Katy Gallagher, today announced that Canberra community group LEAD (Live, Experience, Access, Develop), a specialist not-for-profit organisation supporting people with disabilities, has been awarded the contract to run the iconic Civic Merry-Go-Round.

"It is a fantastic outcome that LEAD has been awarded the trial contract to run the Civic Merry-Go-Round. LEAD, who has been working in Canberra for over 21 years," the Chief Minister said.

"LEAD gives opportunities to Canberrans with a disability to work in a commercial venture, learning new skills and contributing to the community.

"The Civic Merry-Go-Round will provide 10 full-time, part-time and casual positions with additional seasonal work available.

"This venture will give people with a disability the opportunity to be part of the community and contribute to the legacy of the Merry-Go-Round, the iconic heart of our city centre," the Chief Minister said.

The contract will proceed on a trial basis for the next six months and will inform any future tender on the best way to run the Merry-Go-Round.

The timber and steel Civic Merry-Go-Round, built by Australian motoring pioneer Herbert Thompson, was first opened at the St Kilda Esplanade in Melbourne in 1915. After a brief tour of Victoria, the Merry-Go-Round was purchased by the Federal Government and installed at its current location in Civic commencing operation on 13 March 1974.

"The Merry-Go-Round is a focal point of heritage and a place of fond memories to many Canberrans. It is exciting to know that with this tender the Civic Merry-Go-Round will continue to be available to residents and visiting tourists.

"LEAD has begun their contract and the Merry-Go-Round will be in full operation before school holidays and Floriade, which always proves to be popular times," the Chief Minister concluded.