25 March 2020

Changes to Canberra services after stricter lockdown measures announced

| Dominic Giannini
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New restrictions have been put in place to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Photo: Region Media.

The ACT Government has announced a spate of new shutdowns and changes to Canberra’s non-essential services including libraries and cemeteries following heightened restrictions that come into effect today.

Libraries ACT will close its nine branches across the territory and shut off public access to the Heritage Library from today (25 March).

If you need to access essential services through the library such as computers, printers or photocopiers, you can call ACT Libraries on 6205 9000 to arrange a booking at Woden, Dickson or Gungahlin.

Canberrans need not worry about late fees with due dates for items already on loan being extended until the end of April. Library return chutes will remain open and extensions can be done online or over the phone.

With new restrictions on public gatherings now in place, funerals have been limited to 10 mourners and social distancing regulations must be adhered to. Canberra Cemeteries will remain open at Gungahlin, Woden and Hall, as well as the Norwood Park Crematorium, while chapels and places of worship will be open on a case-by-case basis.

The Australian National Botanic Gardens has also been closed.

The Domestic Animal Services (DAS) shelter in Symonston and the Yarralumla Nursery are closed to the public; however, both will continue to be staffed to ensure that the animals and plants remain cared for.

If you are interested in re-homing a dog, you can contact Access Canberra during business hours.

DAS Rangers will continue to respond to call-outs for community safety.

The Birrigai Outdoor School is also closed to the public.

The ACT Government has said that they are still working with contractors, suppliers and industry partners to mitigate any delays in infrastructure projects over the coming months.

“This is an active and ongoing conversation, particularly in light of the social distancing requirements recently enforced,” the Government said.

“Any changes to project timeframes will be communicated with the public once known.”

For more information about closures, changes and restrictions, visit www.cityservices.act.gov.au.

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Paul Leopardi8:13 am 26 Mar 20

Your article doesn’t mention what will happen to Access Canberra branches that are housed in ACT Libraries, especially the Civic branch that does Driver’s Licence renewals. Is there nobody left at RiotACT who asks questions?

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