Canberra’s frontline nightlife support service will continue operating for at least another two years, with the ACT Government extending its contract with St John Ambulance ACT to run the CBR NightCrew program.

Operating in Civic and Braddon since 2017, the harm-minimisation initiative provides first aid, water, phone charging and a safe space for people on nights out, alongside roving patrols across the city’s busiest entertainment areas.

St John Ambulance ACT CEO Martin Fisk said the service plays a critical role in responding to a wide range of incidents, from minor injuries to life-threatening emergencies.

“CBR NightCrew is there for anyone who finds themselves in trouble,” Mr Fisk said.

“Our teams are trained to support patients with everything from patching up cuts and grazes to administering Naloxone to someone experiencing an opioid overdose.”

Mr Fisk said crews were involved in three life-saving resuscitations in 2025, as well as responding to at least one major incident involving multiple casualties.

Police inspector Dave Craft said the program complemented police operations in the city’s busiest precinct.

“Our priority is the safety of the community, and the city is the busiest precinct in Canberra,” he said.

“The roving CBR NightCrew provide support and assistance to vulnerable people and we work together to ensure all Canberrans enjoy their night out.”

New figures show the service continues to reduce pressure on emergency responders, with 73 ambulance callouts avoided between October and December last year – saving an estimated $58,000 to $83,000.

During the same period, NightCrew assisted nearly 2000 people, with more than two-thirds aged between 18 and 25. Volunteers also handed out 760 bottles of water and 1465 lollipops to help with hydration and de-escalation.

The service operates from a fixed site at the Civic bus interchange as well as through mobile patrols, running Thursday to Saturday nights during daylight saving and Friday and Saturday nights over winter.

The program is free and open to anyone needing assistance during a night out.