What to know about Canberra
Local knowledge, each fact with a link to where it comes from.
The ACT Government says an event with jumping castles, a stage or tents on public land needs a permit, including private functions such as weddings.
Source: ACT City Services, events on public land (opens in a new tab)
The ACT Government asks applicants to allow at least 28 days for a public land permit once all documents are in.
Source: ACT City Services, events on public land (opens in a new tab)
The National Capital Authority says events on National Land in Canberra need a permit and licence agreement, and works approval for structures such as marquees and amusement structures.
Source: National Capital Authority, venue hire (opens in a new tab)
Canberra Airport averages a July low of 0.1°C and a January top of 30.0°C.
Source: Bureau of Meteorology, Canberra Airport climate statistics (opens in a new tab)
The 2021 Census counted 490,517 people in the Canberra - Queanbeyan Significant Urban Area.
Source: ABS 2021 Census QuickStats, Canberra - Queanbeyan SUA (opens in a new tab)
ACT public land
On ACT Government land, a party with a jumping castle, a stage or a tent needs a public land permit, and private functions are covered. Allow at least 28 days once your documents are in (ACT City Services). A small private gathering with none of those may not need one.
National Land
Around the lake and the national institutions, the land is the National Capital Authority's. Events there need a permit and licence agreement, plus works approval for a marquee or an amusement structure (National Capital Authority).
Canberra's climate
Canberra swings from summer tops of about 30°C to July nights near freezing, averaging 0.1°C at the airport (BoM). Outdoor parties outside summer usually need heating.
Canberra party hire FAQs
Do I need a permit for a jumping castle in a Canberra park?
On ACT public land, yes: the ACT Government lists jumping castles, stages and tents as needing a permit.
How long does an ACT public land permit take?
Allow at least 28 days once all supporting documents are in.