DFAT invests in new Barton building to consolidate staff

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) has committed $94 million towards a new six-storey office building at 19 National Circuit, Barton, under a contract with Cromwell Property Group valued at $93,995,000. The 19,800 sqm development will primarily cover the fit-out and aims to consolidate approximately 1,500 staff from multiple Canberra locations.

Scheduled for completion by mid-2027, the building will operate under a 15-year lease with a five-year extension option. Consolidation is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce security risks, and eliminate the $300,000-per-year shuttle bus service currently connecting separate sites. Existing guard posts will be replaced with facilities compliant with Home Affairs’ modern security standards.

The fit-out targets a usable office area of 12 sqm per workstation, aligning with Commonwealth occupational density targets, and will integrate staff feedback gathered during consultation. Cromwell will manage both base building construction and fit-out delivery simultaneously, with a fit-out concept issued once the site reaches 30 per cent completion.

Strategically located near Parliament House and the National Security Office Precinct, the new facility sits within Canberra’s high-demand government precinct. It will complement other major developments, including the forthcoming Australian Taxation Office headquarters.

The building is designed to achieve 6-star NABERS energy and 6-star Green Star ratings, reflecting DFAT’s commitment to sustainability while enhancing workplace functionality. Operational savings are expected from reduced administration, fewer security desks, and eliminated shuttle requirements.

Explore the full plans for DFAT’s Barton consolidation and its impact on Canberra’s government precincts. Read more about it here.