Retuning the Ex Govie: A guide to renovation and extension of the Canberra 400 series ex government houses
Researcher
Flynn Hopkins
Published
06 Mar 2025
Funding
Alastair Swayn Internship
Canberra’s evolving suburbs face new challenges shaping housing design.
Population growth, affordability, and government-driven urban infill highlight the need to rethink existing housing.
A significant portion of Canberra’s housing stock consists of former government houses, commonly known as ex-govies. These modest two- and three-bedroom homes have become informal icons of Canberra’s suburban landscape.
As the city evolves, so do its housing needs. While ex-govies played a vital role in housing and community development in the 1960s, they are increasingly becoming outdated. This research explores three major housing challenges facing Canberra today, along with three specific challenges unique to ex-govies.
The Alastair Swayn Internship 2024: a joint initiative between the Alastair Swayn Foundation, the ACT Government and the University of Canberra
