Read about the benefits of light rail over the past 5 years

The ACT Government’s signature public transport project continues to deliver clear and lasting benefits to support our growing city.

A new report analysing the benefits of the first stage of light rail 5 years since its introduction has been released, showing that light rail builds a better Canberra.

The report reveals the positive contribution light rail has made to Canberra. This includes supporting the construction of more housing, increasing public transport patronage and reducing congestion on our roads.

Some of the benefits discussed in the report include:

• $2.3 billion in construction given development approval or currently under consideration in suburbs directly adjacent the light rail corridor.
• 16.5 million passenger trips since the start of operations in 2019.
• 6,100 new dwellings along the light rail corridor since 2016.
• 18% reduction in the daily volume of motor vehicles compared to 2016.
• 43% of passengers on light rail have never previously used the bus network.

These results show how light rail is helping Canberra become a more connected, sustainable and vibrant city. And this is only the beginning: these benefits are projected to continue as the light rail network expands.

The ACT Government has selected the City to Woden corridor as the next stage of its city-shaping light rail network. The next stage will create a north-south public transport spine for Canberra, further connecting the city’s key employment, residential and commercial hubs.

Read and download Light Rail Five Years On: Benefits Realisation Report 2024.