Groundbreaking ceremony at the High Commission of Canada in Canberra

On February 25, 2025, a significant milestone was celebrated at the High Commission of Canada in Canberra with the groundbreaking ceremony for the future Canadian Chancery in Australia. This event marks the start of a new chapter in Canada's diplomatic presence in Australia, as construction begins on the new chancery, which is expected to be completed within the next two years. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn, Australian officials, diplomatic guests, Indigenous representatives, and members of the Canadian team, all gathering to witness the historic moment.

The ceremony opened with a traditional Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony conducted by Ngunnawal Elder Auntie Serena Williams, offering a moment of reflection and respect for the land on which the High Commission sits and First Nations peoples. The smoking ceremony featured lemon-eucalyptus leaves as well as a maple leaf, symbolizing the shared cultural values. It’s a tradition that has been performed by Aboriginal people for centuries and is one of the oldest ceremonies practiced in the world today. Smoking ceremonies can be used for several purposes including healing. Following this, Québécoise artist Ivanie Aubin Malo, a member of the Wolastoq First Nation, performed a moving artistic dance that beautifully blended the rich cultural traditions of both Canada and Australia.

The groundbreaking ceremony featured speeches by several dignitaries with Her Excellency Ms. Sam Mostyn, Governor-General of Australia, highlighting the importance of this new chapter in Canadian Australian relations and on the landscape of the famous diplomatic Commonwealth Avenue in Canberra. High Commissioner of Canada Dr Julie Sunday, spoke about the symbolism of blending eucalyptus and maple leaves and the importance of marking Canada and Australia’s reconciliation journeys. Wojciech Pluta, the lead project architect from Denton Corker Marshal, outlined the innovative modern and indigenous design features of the new chancery, and Peita de Boer, the Director of Manteena Group, the Construction General Contractor, spoke of her team’s enthusiasm for the project.

The event highlighted the significant Indigenous aspects of the new building, underscoring Canada’s commitment to truth and reconciliation with indigenous communities. The design will incorporate indigenous art and architectural elements, serving as a testament to the importance of honoring the first peoples of both nations. Designed in partnership by the Australian design firm Denton Corker Marshall from Melbourne (Victoria) and the Canadian design firm MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple from Halifax (Nova Scotia), the new building will serve as medium for cultural exchange between Canada and Australia, placing design excellence at the centre of cultural diplomacy, focusing on shared values and common ground.

The architectural concept features an ethereal floating box, representing Canada, resting respectfully on grounded stereotomic elements of the Australian landscape. Gesturing towards Commonwealth Avenue is a lantern, an elevated illuminated chamber. This lantern is a symbol of security and openness, reflecting the Chancery’s role as a beacon of diplomacy and cultural exchange, as well as the welcoming and friendly nature of the Canadian people.

As the construction of the new chancery progresses, it will undoubtedly stand as a lasting symbol of friendship and shared values for generations to come.

Authors: Simon Ferey with CNBRA and SYDNY teams