The ACT is leasehold land — so before you argue about building approval, check your Crown lease purpose clause. That single document stops more Canberra fit-outs than any building rule.
The licensing body for Australian Capital Territory is Access Canberra.
Construction occupations are licensed under the Construction Occupations (Licensing) Act 2004 — builders, building surveyors, plumbers, electricians and gas fitters are all separately licensed through Access Canberra.
Approval pathway — the order matters, because a permit issued before the use is approved is wasted money.
Access compliance (AS 1428.1) is assessed at DA and building approval; the ACT is stricter than most on accessible amenities.
Register the food business with the ACT Health Protection Service under the Food Act 2001 before opening.
Access Canberra — liquor licences and permits are administered by Access Canberra.
Development approval for signage; the ACT’s planning controls are prescriptive about size and illumination.
ACT Fire & Rescue plus a fire safety schedule; annual certification applies.
Plumbing by a licensed plumber; trade waste consent from Icon Water.
The ACT has a large legacy of Mr Fluffy loose-fill asbestos homes — pre-1980 buildings need specific clearance checks before demolition work.
| Project tier | Indicative range | What it buys |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh | $1,400 – $1,600/m² | Paint, flooring, lighting swap, minor joinery |
| Standard fit-out | Mid-range of $1,400 – $3,600 /m² | New shopfront, counters, joinery, services adjustments |
| Premium / flagship | Top of $1,400 – $3,600 /m² | Custom joinery, feature ceilings, full services upgrade |
Benchmarks include fit-out works only — not base building works, rent, stock or professional fees. Run the calculator for a range on your size and tier.
Canberra, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong.
Size, tier and state multipliers in 60 seconds — no email required.