ACT Legislative Assembly Concludes First Sitting Week of 2026 with Budget Review Release

Assembly Session Wraps Up as Budget Review Takes Center Stage

The ACT Legislative Assembly is concluding its first sitting week of 2026 today, Thursday, 5 February. This final day of the session marks a significant moment for the territory's governance, as the government officially releases the 2025-2026 Budget Review. This mid-year update is expected to provide a detailed look at the territory's fiscal health, including revised revenue forecasts and updated spending priorities for the remainder of the financial year. Political analysts are closely watching the numbers, particularly in sectors such as health and infrastructure, following recent federal funding agreements regarding hospital and disability supports.

Political Tensions and Reported Negotiations

Beyond the formal fiscal documents, the atmosphere in the Assembly today is charged with rumors of potential political realignments. Recent reports have highlighted unexpected discussions between the ACT Greens and the Canberra Liberals. While Liberal MLA Mark Parton initially denied such reports, subsequent admissions from within the Greens have fueled speculation regarding a possible shift in the territory’s traditional power dynamics. The potential for a new coalition model to challenge the longstanding Labor-Greens arrangement has added a layer of intensity to today's proceedings as the first sitting week of the year comes to a close.

Emergency Government Measures: Total Fire Ban Issued

In addition to legislative activities, the ACT Government has taken urgent action regarding public safety. The ACT Emergency Services Agency has declared a Total Fire Ban (TOBAN) effective today, 5 February, extending through 11:59 PM on Friday, 6 February. This declaration under the Emergencies Act 2004 comes in response to severe weather conditions across the Canberra region. Residents are advised that:

• No fires may be lit in the open air during this period.
• All permits for burning are revoked for the duration of the ban.
• Gas and electric barbecues may still be used under specific safety conditions, such as being placed within a cleared area away from flammable materials.

Infrastructure and Transport Updates

Commuters in Canberra are also navigating significant road changes today as the government pushes forward with major infrastructure projects. A planned closure of Coppins Crossing Road is in effect from 2:00 AM to 3:00 PM today to facilitate a major concrete pour for the precast deck slabs on the Molonglo River Bridge. This project is a critical component of the ongoing development in the Molonglo Valley. Additionally, residents are reminded of continued road adjustments on Northbourne Avenue and London Circuit as construction for the light rail project progresses through its February schedule.