Getting young people home safely


Released 25/07/2017

A new program to support people enjoying the city entertainment precinct at night will create a safer nightlife environment for patrons in Canberra’s CBD.

Attorney-General Gordon Ramsay today launched the CBR NightCrew in the city – a trial which will run on Friday and Saturday nights until April 2018.

“The program, managed by St John Ambulance and staffed by trained volunteers, will help young people to have a better and safer night out in Canberra,” Mr Ramsay said.

“Canberra remains one of the safest capital cities in Australia but we can’t be complacent and take unnecessary risks.

The CBR NightCrew Safe Space marquee will be set up near Platform 8 of the City Bus Station on Mort Street and staffed between 10pm and 4am.

“The Safe Space will have chairs for people to go and rest, water for hydration, advice and assistance for safe transport options, basic first aid and mobile phone charging, so that young people can contact their friends or arrange a lift home,” Mr Ramsay said.

“Roving NightCrew teams will also move around Canberra city to assist where necessary.”

The program extends the 12 week pilot that was held over summer in the Canberra CBD.

“We’ve seen the benefits that a crew of dedicated volunteers supported by the expertise of St John Ambulance can have for vulnerable people – by their presence and support,” Mr Ramsay said.

“The volume of people assisted – 1,900 over a 12 week period – shows the value that this service will continue to provide people wanting a safe night out in Canberra.”

The ACT Government and ACT Policing are supporting the 12 month trial in collaboration with the City Renewal Authority, St John Ambulance and the local hospitality industry represented by Keep Canberra Open and the Australian Hotels Association.

“I look forward to seeing the benefits of the CBR NightCrew and most importantly, helping make sure our young people get home safely after a night out,” Mr Ramsay said.

City Renewal acting chief executive Gary Rake said the program would help more people enjoy their experience in the city.

“The city is Canberra’s premium night entertainment precinct and making people feel safe and secure will improve the overall experience of a night out,” Mr Rake said.

“This program is good for the vibrancy of our city, it’s good for business and it leads to better outcomes for the young people who want to enjoy the city at night.

“City Renewal will continue to seek out other opportunities for government and private sector collaboration that will increase and improve opportunities for people to live in, use and enjoy the City Renewal Precinct.”

- Statement ends -

Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email


«ACT Government Media Releases | «Minister Media Releases