Canberra City Notices: Essential Service Updates and Road Alerts

Infrastructure Alert: Commonwealth Avenue Night Closure
As part of the ongoing Light Rail Stage 2A construction, the ACT Government has announced a full closure of Commonwealth Avenue in both directions. The closure will take effect between the Parkes Way on/off ramps and Vernon Circle starting at 8:00 pm on Thursday, 12 February 2026, and is expected to remain in place until 5:00 am on Friday, 13 February. This work is critical for the bridge deck construction over Parkes Way as the project moves toward connecting the city to Commonwealth Park.
- Detours: Motorists are advised to use the Parkes Way on-ramp to the Lawson Crescent exit, continuing via Edinburgh Avenue and Vernon Circle.
- Pedestrians and Cyclists: Detours will be clearly marked for active travel participants using the shared paths over Parkes Way.
- Public Transport: Transport Canberra bus services will be diverted during the closure; however, all existing stops are currently expected to be maintained.
Security Notice: VIP Visit Traffic Disruption
ACT Policing and security agencies have issued a traffic warning for the Parliamentary Triangle and routes to and from Canberra Airport. Due to the official visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, rolling road closures and restricted perimeters remain active through Thursday, 12 February. Residents and commuters should anticipate short-notice access blocks and a heightened police presence in Yarralumla and the CBD. Travelers heading to the airport are urged to leave 60 to 90 minutes earlier than usual to avoid potential delays near security cordons.
ACT Legislative Assembly: Housing Reform Hearings
The Standing Committee on Planning, Transport, and City Services continues its Inquiry into Missing Middle Housing Reforms (DPA-04) today. Public hearings are scheduled in the Prince Edward Island Room from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Key witnesses scheduled for Thursday, 12 February, include the Planning Institute of Australia, the Master Builders Association of the ACT, and senior representatives from the ACT Government. The public is welcome to view proceedings from the viewing galleries or via the official Legislative Assembly video-on-demand service.
Public Health and Safety Advisories
Health officials are advising residents to remain vigilant following a significant rise in measles cases across the Western-Pacific region. Community members are encouraged to verify their vaccination status with a GP, particularly before undertaking international travel. Additionally, a TGA safety alert remains active regarding imported, unapproved melatonin products. Laboratory testing recently identified significant discrepancies in melatonin content, posing a high risk of overdose, particularly for children. Residents are advised to avoid unapproved gummy supplements and consult medical professionals for sleep-related concerns.
Regional Road Maintenance
Routine asphalt patching will result in westbound lane closures on the Barton Highway between Bellenden Street and Gundaroo Drive. These works are scheduled to begin at 8:00 pm on Thursday, 12 February, and conclude by 7:00 am the following morning. Motorists are reminded to adhere to reduced speed limits and follow all posted directional signage throughout the work zone.

Shakespeare by the Lake and Lunar New Year Feasts Today in Canberra

Clear Skies and Cultural Spark: The Tuesday Morning Briefing

Major Delays Expected on Commonwealth Avenue and Arterial Roads
