Planning an Event on National Land
The National Capital Authority manages the national land within Canberra.
NCA approval is required for events and all associated structures at these venues:
- Parliamentary Zone. Major events may also require parliamentary approval. The Parliament House Precinct is managed by the Presiding Officers of the Parliament.
- Lake Burley Griffin and islands.Several public parks and gardens along the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin are managed by the ACT Government. Their is required to use the land for events. NCA approval is required for associated temporary structures.
- Commonwealth and Kings Parks
- Acton Peninsula and Yarramundi
- Anzac Parade
What to do
- Discuss the suitability of various venues for your event (including the range of facilities available) with the NCA.
- Select a preferred venue (a co-ordination and/or site meeting may be required).
- Submit a completed event application form. You may require Adobe Reader to view PDF files.
- Download PDF version (print and fax), file size 88 Kb
- Download Microsoft Word Document version (save and email), file size 152 Kb
- Complete a separate application form for any structures associated with the event. ‘structures’ would include:
- tents, marquees, sun shelters
- temporary sheds
- jumping castles, amusement rides (including slides and swings)
- platforms or stages
- scaffolding and/or towers for cameras or sound systems
- signage, flags and banners
- portable toilets
- pickets, stakes and fences.
This application must include a map or plan of the area showing the location of key activities and all structures. No work may be undertaken on site until approval has been given in writing.
Inspections
Site inspections are recommended if the event organiser intends to set up any structures or equipment at the venue. NCA staff are available for inspections at mutually convenient times.
Other approvals
- Environmental Protection Agency—for outdoor events involving amplified music in a venue capable of holding 2,000 people or more.
- ACT Government agencies—for traffic management plans, liquor licensing, sale of goods, engineering safety, fireworks and public safety.
It is the event organiser's responsibility to obtain any other approvals required to stage an event.
Risk and Indemnity
- All events involve some degree of risk.
- Event organisers are required to complete a form indemnifying the Commonwealth or its agents against all claims that may result from the event. An indemnity form is available from the NCA.
- Event organisers will be required to show evidence of appropriate Public Liability insurance and may also be required to prepare a risk management plan.
Other Issues
Time
- Allow sufficient time for the planning and approval process.
- The NCA endeavours to handle all applications promptly but some applications require consultation with other agencies.
- Any road closures must be announced to the public via the press at least seven days before the event. These public notices are organised by the NCA.
Cost
- A $25 administration fee is charged for works approval on any events involving structures.
- Event organisers may be required to lodge a bond to cover possible damage to the venue or its surrounds.
- Deposits are required for the loan of any NCA keys.
Power Access
Most venues have power outlets. See List of Power Outlets (linked to PDF).
Waste Management
Event organisers are responsible for the cleanliness of the area during the event, as well as for clean-up afterwards. All venues must be left clean and tidy. The NCA can arrange for extra waste management services if needed, at the event organiser’s expense.
Protests
The conduct of protests is covered in a separate Authority publication The Right to Protest—A Guide.