The CBR NightCrew will be walking our city streets this New Year’s Eve to make sure everyone is having a safe night. Photo: Gary Ramage.
Canberrans enjoying New Year’s Eve celebrations in the city can still seek support from the CBR NightCrew as St John Ambulance extends its service by an extra night this weekend.
During summer, the CBR NightCrew usually operates on a Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
But this year, as the big night falls on a Sunday, volunteers will be out on the streets from 9:30 pm to support those affected by excessive alcohol or drug consumption and other partygoers requiring assistance. The service will stay open as required.
Situated behind platform five of the Civic bus interchange, the CBR NightCrew’s tent provides a reassuring haven. The safe space is equipped with comfortable chairs, bottles of water and mobile phone charging stations.
Teams of volunteers also roam Civic throughout the night to provide support and basic first aid.
Minister for Government Services and Regulatory Reform Tara Cheyne said the CBR NightCrew provides support for those on a night out when they most need it.
“The NightCrew’s dedicated team of volunteers will be ready for the fourth consecutive night this week as the city fills with Canberrans celebrating New Year’s Eve,” Minister Cheyne said.
“This important service ensures the safety of people who are out enjoying themselves and the vibrant celebrations Canberra has to offer.”
St John Ambulance ACT has provided the CBR NightCrew service since 2017, first forming in partnership with the Australian Federal Police before formalising the program with the ACT Government.
NightCrew’s future was in doubt earlier this year after the service was left waiting for a decision on additional funding. However, St John Ambulance ACT will continue delivering the CBR NightCrew service for at least the next three years following a successful tender bid for a $1.1 million contract, announced in October 2023.
The service gives those out for a night on the town in Canberra a place to go if they need help and don’t want to go to the police.
It follows a harm minimisation approach for those impacted by excessive alcohol or drug consumption by contacting a person’s family or friends, providing sober-up support and first aid, and de-escalating potential violent incidents.
During the summer months, crews respond to more than 2500 incidents.
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