Major Closures on Commonwealth Avenue and City Disruptions This Sunday

Major Traffic Disruptions in the City Centre

Commuters and residents in Canberra should prepare for significant travel disruptions today, Sunday, 29 March 2026, as major infrastructure projects reach critical milestones. The most substantial impact is the full closure of Commonwealth Avenue in both directions between the Parkes Way on/off ramps and Vernon Circle. This closure, which began on Friday evening, will remain in effect until 5:00 AM tomorrow, Monday, 30 March. These works are part of the Light Rail Stage 2A project, specifically focused on installing track slabs and upgrading essential utilities along the alignment.

In addition to the full closure, Commonwealth Avenue southbound remains reduced to a single lane between Parkes Way and Albert Street (east). Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and follow all posted detours. Those heading toward the city from the south should consider using the Kings Avenue Bridge as an alternative route to bypass the congestion near Vernon Circle.

Key Roadworks and Local Closures

Several other major arteries are experiencing closures and lane reductions today:

• Bunda Street: The stretch between Genge Street and Scotts Crossing remains closed for ongoing upgrade works. This closure is expected to continue until mid-April. Diversions are currently in place through the city’s side streets.
• Majura Road and Fairbairn Avenue: A full road closure is in effect at this intersection. This disruption is scheduled to last until Thursday, 2 April. Drivers heading to or from the Canberra Airport or the Pialligo district should allow for significant extra travel time.
• Monaro Highway: Ongoing pavement construction continues near the intersection with Lanyon Drive. Temporary traffic lights are in operation, and the highway may be reduced to a single lane in both directions during off-peak periods today.

Public Transport and Leisure Alerts

Transport Canberra has advised that bus services normally transitioning through Commonwealth Avenue are being diverted via London Circuit and Edinburgh Avenue. While no stops are expected to be missed, the detours may cause delays of up to 15 minutes. Passengers are encouraged to check the real-time NXTBUS alerts before starting their journey.

For those planning outdoor activities, please note that most ACT Government turf sportsgrounds are currently closed for winter preparation and will not reopen until Wednesday, 1 April. Additionally, health alerts remain in place for several waterways. The swimming areas at Tharwa Bridge, as well as Bargang and Yerra beaches in Gungahlin, remain closed to the public due to elevated bacteria levels following recent weather events.

Commuter Advice

With multiple construction sites active across the National Triangle and the CBD, the best advice for Sunday travel is to plan ahead. Use GPS navigation for real-time traffic updates and be prepared for higher-than-usual traffic volumes on detour routes such as Parkes Way and Kings Avenue.