Canberra Stadium

GIO Stadium

Canberra Stadium, also known as GIO Stadium for sponsorship reasons, is a cornerstone of sports and entertainment in Australia’s capital. Located in Bruce, just a short drive from the city centre, this purpose-built rectangular stadium is renowned for hosting thrilling rugby league and rugby union matches, major concerts, and international sporting events.

Home to the Canberra Raiders (NRL) and ACT Brumbies (Super Rugby), the stadium provides a vibrant atmosphere for fans and a state-of-the-art facility for athletes. This guide offers essential information for visiting the stadium, understanding its history, and planning your event experience.

History of Canberra Stadium

Canberra Stadium has a rich history of evolution and adaptation. Originally opened as Bruce Stadium in 1977 for the Pacific Conference Games, it initially featured an athletics track and a seating capacity of 8,000. Significant redevelopments in 1985 (for the World Cup Athletics Games) and crucially in 1997 (in preparation for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Football preliminary rounds) transformed it into the rectangular stadium we see today.

The 1997 redevelopment saw the playing surface lowered, new inner-bowl seating added (increasing capacity to 25,000), and an upgrade of grandstand roofs, making it ideal for rugby and football codes. It was known as Canberra Stadium before a naming rights agreement with GIO Insurance in 2014 officially changed its name to GIO Stadium Canberra. It has hosted various major events, including matches for the 2003 Rugby World Cup and the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.

Key Information

Official Name: GIO Stadium Canberra
Former Names: Bruce Stadium, Canberra Stadium
Location: Battye Street, Bruce ACT 2617, Australia
Established: 1977
Capacity: 25,011 (all-seated)
Home Teams: Canberra Raiders (NRL), ACT Brumbies (Super Rugby)

Ticketing Information for Canberra Stadium Events

Tickets for events at Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) are primarily sold through official ticketing partners. It’s crucial to purchase tickets from authorized sources to ensure validity and avoid issues.

How to Purchase Tickets:

  • Official Ticketing Partner: For most major events, including Canberra Raiders (NRL) and ACT Brumbies (Super Rugby) home games, Ticketek Australia is the official ticketing provider. You can find event listings and purchase tickets directly from their website: Ticketek Australia – GIO Stadium Events.
  • Club Memberships: If you’re a fan of the Canberra Raiders or ACT Brumbies, becoming a club member is often the best way to secure tickets, especially for popular matches, and gain access to member-exclusive benefits, priority seating, and discounted rates. Visit the respective club websites for membership information:
  • Venue Box Office: On event days, a limited number of tickets may be available for purchase directly at the Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) box office. However, for popular events, it’s highly recommended to purchase in advance online.
  • Hospitality Packages: For a premium experience, Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) offers various hospitality options, including private suites and corporate lounge access, often bundled with catering. These can be booked directly through the stadium’s official channels or via Ticketek. Visit GIO Stadium Hospitality for more information.

Important Ticketing Considerations:

  • Print-at-Home/Mobile Tickets: Many events utilize print-at-home or mobile tickets. Ensure you download or print your tickets prior to arriving at the stadium for faster entry.
  • Conditions of Entry: Familiarise yourself with Canberra Stadium’s (GIO Stadium’s) Conditions of Entry, which cover prohibited items, bag policies, and general stadium rules. This helps ensure a smooth and safe entry process.
  • Arrive Early: Gates typically open well before the event starts (check individual event details for specific times). Arriving early allows ample time for security checks, finding your seat, and enjoying the pre-game atmosphere.
  • Beware of Unauthorised Resellers: Only purchase tickets from official and authorized sources. Tickets bought from unofficial third-party websites or individuals may be invalid or overpriced.

Getting to Canberra Stadium

Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) is located in Bruce, approximately 10-15 minutes’ drive northwest of Canberra’s city centre. Public transport is highly recommended on event days.

1. By Air:

  • Canberra Airport (CBR): Canberra’s main airport is approximately a 20-minute drive from Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium). Taxis, rideshare, and car rental services are available from the airport.

2. By Public Transport:

Transport Canberra provides efficient services to Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium), especially on event days.

  • Event Day Chartered Buses: For major Raiders and Brumbies games, free chartered bus services (operated by CDC Canberra) often run from major Transport Canberra interchanges (Gungahlin, Belconnen, Tuggeranong, Woden, City, Kingston, Braddon/Turner). Return services typically depart 20 minutes after the game ends.
  • Regular Bus Services: Several regular Transport Canberra bus routes service the stadium area (e.g., R2, R3, R4, R9). Normal fares apply for these services.
  • Light Rail: Canberra’s light rail runs between Gungahlin Place and the City. Passengers can transfer to a regular bus or a chartered bus at the Gungahlin or City interchanges to reach the stadium.
  • Planning Your Journey: Check the Transport Canberra website for the latest schedules, service alerts, and real-time journey planning.

3. By Car & Parking:

Driving to Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) is possible, but parking can be limited and is often charged on event days.

  • Car Parks: Canberra Stadium (GIO Stadium) has two main car parks:
    • West Car Park: Accessed via Battye Street off Haydon Drive.
    • East Car Park: Accessed from Agar Street off Ginninderra Drive (typically only open on event days).
    • Parking fees usually apply on event days.
  • Overflow Parking: Overflow car parking is often available at the nearby University of Canberra, a short walk from the stadium.
  • Rideshare/Taxi: Dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones are usually available for rideshare services and taxis on event days. Follow event signage.

Important Travel Notes:

  • Arrive Early: Especially on major event days, arrive well in advance to allow for travel, parking, and security checks.
  • Check Conditions of Entry: Familiarise yourself with the stadium’s Conditions of Entry, including bag policies, to ensure faster entry.

Where to Stay Near Canberra Stadium

Canberra offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. While there are some options very close to the stadium in the Bruce/Belconnen area, many visitors choose to stay closer to the city centre for a wider selection and access to other attractions.

1. Hotels in Bruce/Belconnen (Closest to Stadium):

Staying in Bruce or nearby Belconnen offers the convenience of proximity to Canberra Stadium.

  • Pros: Most convenient for walking or a very short drive to the stadium. Ideal for those primarily attending events at Canberra Stadium.
  • Examples:

2. Hotels in Canberra City Centre:

For those who want to combine their stadium visit with broader Canberra sightseeing, staying in the City Centre is a popular choice.

  • Pros: Wide array of hotels from budget to luxury, excellent dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Good base for exploring Canberra’s national attractions. Well-connected to the stadium via public transport (bus/light rail + bus).
  • Examples:

3. Other Canberra Areas (e.g., Kingston, Barton, Forrest):

  • Pros: Offer different vibes, often with boutique hotels or serviced apartments. Still relatively easy access to the stadium via car or public transport. Close to cultural institutions or specific dining precincts.
  • Examples:

Booking Tips:

  • Book in Advance: Especially during major sporting events or concerts, accommodation in Canberra can book up quickly.
  • Consider Transport: Evaluate the convenience of public transport to the stadium from your chosen accommodation area.
  • Check Reviews: Use reputable booking sites like Booking.com, Expedia, or TripAdvisor to compare options and read recent guest reviews.
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Canberra Stadium

Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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