Politics, Parades, and a Welcome Cool Change: Your Canberra Briefing

Morning Mood: The Great Cool Change

After a weekend of brutal conditions where temperatures soared to a staggering 41.1°C, Canberra is waking up to a much-needed sense of relief. The Bureau of Meteorology officially cancelled the heatwave warning for the ACT yesterday, and today, citizens can expect much more comfortable conditions in the high twenties. The mood across the city is one of collective exhaling; the stifling air has cleared, making way for a busy, productive Tuesday as the community settles back into the rhythm of the working week following the summer break.

The Key Talking Point: The Hill is Humming

Traffic and activity around the Parliamentary Triangle and Civic will be at a peak today as Canberra experiences a rare "double return." Both the ACT Legislative Assembly and the Federal Parliament are commencing their first sitting weeks of 2026 today, Tuesday, 3 February. Locally, the Assembly begins Sitting Week 1 with a full agenda that usually follows the mid-year budget review period. Meanwhile, at the federal level, the return of politicians to the hill means the city will be buzzing with policy debates and political staff. For the average Canberran, this means allowing extra time for the commute, especially around Commonwealth and Kings Avenue, and perhaps spotting a few more suits than usual at your local Manuka or Barton cafe.

Feel-Good Story: A Global Street Party Awaits

The city is already beginning to transform for the 28th National Multicultural Festival, which kicks off this Friday, 6 February. Local excitement is building as the full program has been released, featuring country music icon Troy Cassar-Daley as the headline act. Beyond the big names, the real heart of the story this year is the record-breaking participation of over 170 multicultural communities. Whether it is the anticipation of the vibrant parade or the legendary food stalls in Glebe Park, there is a palpable sense of pride in Canberra’s reputation as a welcoming, global city. In other lighthearted news, the Canberra Centre’s resident “handyman” has recently become an unexpected social media sensation, with locals flocking to the mall’s digital channels to celebrate the quiet, hard-working character who keeps the city's heart running.

What to Watch Today

• Back to School: It is the second day of the new term for most continuing students. Watch out for school zone speed limits and increased pedestrian activity near campuses.
• Exhibitions: If you are looking for a quiet moment, the National Library of Australia has several free exhibits open today, including a special display on the 30th anniversary of the Mabo v Queensland decision.
• Evening Sports: Catch the UC Capitals as they take on the Southside Flyers tonight at the AIS Arena for a high-energy mid-week clash.