Why has land in Canberra remained under government ownership?

Land in Canberra has remained under government ownership in accordance with the Seat of Government (Administration) Act of 1910.1

This policy of retaining public ownership has been a fundamental tool for effective town planning and development. By maintaining control over the land, the government has been able to manage the city's growth, preserve open spaces, and ensure that urban development aligns with established design principles.12

Rather than selling the land outright, the government issues leases for private residential and commercial use, which allows for the control of land use through specific lease conditions. This framework has historically enabled authorities to coordinate infrastructure, service provision, and the construction of public buildings, ensuring that market forces operate within a structured, planned environment.21