The Australian Capital Territory government is looking to harness the proven productivity gains of hybrid work arrangements as a central pillar of its updated strategy for economic growth and job creation.
New data reveals that three in four ACT public servants now utilise hybrid work setups, allowing them to log on from anywhere. The government's CBR2030 economic development framework identifies this flexible model as a key driver for future prosperity, aiming to expand its benefits across the territory.
A Framework Built on Flexibility and Inclusion
The recently released framework argues that supporting remote and hybrid work does more than just change where people work. It states this approach helps slash commute times, improves work-life balance, and fosters a more inclusive economy.
Specifically within the ACT public service, the government reports hybrid work has significantly improved workforce participation. This is particularly true for carers, parents, and individuals managing health or study commitments.
"It has also strengthened inclusion, retention, and productivity, while supporting local economies and Canberra's reputation as a liveable city," the CBR2030 document states.
The framework commits the government to continued investment in the workforce to ensure Canberrans have the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow.
Four Key Missions for Canberra's Future
The CBR2030 plan outlines four core "missions" to guide Canberra's development over the remainder of the decade. These are designed to build on the territory's existing strengths and address future challenges.
The four missions are:
- A city that continues to give you back time.
- A climate-ready city, leading Australia's net zero future.
- Continued knowledge-based economic growth.
- Building Canberra's future today.
The first mission, focused on giving time back to residents, has already influenced investments in urban renewal and cultural infrastructure. The goal is to shape a city that supports everyday ease and meaningful connection for its community.
Driving Growth Through Innovation and Partnership
The economic strategy emphasises diversifying the territory's economy beyond the public sector. The government, which launched a new venture capital fund in November, plans to target investments in high-growth potential businesses.
Priority sectors for this diversification push include knowledge industries, aviation and the visitor economy, and creative industries.
Tertiary education is flagged as one of Canberra's most vital economic and cultural assets. The framework promises to bolster an "innovation ecosystem" that helps local ideas compete on national and global stages.
"By investing in talent, research and innovation, we are shaping an economy that is more diverse, resilient and globally competitive," the document asserts.
A critical part of this will be forging stronger partnerships between universities and industry to transform climate solutions into scalable technologies with real economic value.
Ambitious Jobs Target Set for 2030
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the government would use the CBR2030 framework to pursue an ambitious employment goal. The target is to grow Canberra's employment base to 300,000 jobs by 2030.
"CBR2030 is about shaping a city that works for everyone. Powered by innovation, education, and strategic infrastructure investment, Canberra has seen consistent growth, record job creation and a surge in new businesses," Mr Barr said.
He highlighted the territory's robust economic track record, noting uninterrupted economic growth for more than three decades.
Supporting this claim, the framework notes the ACT economy grew by 41.9 per cent between 2015-16 and 2024-25. This was the highest rate of growth of any Australian jurisdiction in that period and well above the national growth rate of 22 per cent.
The CBR2030 document succeeds earlier economic development plans issued by the ACT government in 2016 and 2022, setting a renewed course for the capital's future.
