HMAS Canberra (III) Freedom of Entry

On Saturday 30 November 2024, HMAS Canberra III will conduct a Freedom of Entry in Canberra, ACT. The Navy unit will march to the staging point and meet the official party.

The parade will commence at 11:00am at Veterans Park and will move down Northbourne Avenue where the ‘challenge’ will take place at Civic Square. The parade will conclude at Glebe Park.

The best vantage points will be along London Circuit, with the official Challenge taking place near Civic Square. Witness the parade with all its pomp and ceremony and show your support for HMAS Canberra and its crew.

Please be advised that there will be road closures on Northbourne Avenue, London Circuit and Akuna Street for the parade. There may be minor disruption to traffic and buses.

The Freedom of Entry is a long-standing tradition performed by the Royal Australian Navy and all members of the public are welcome to watch. It is the highest accolade a town can bestow upon a military unit and is a mark of trust and respect.

During medieval times, fortress walls afforded cities protection from attacks. The citizens of walled cities refused to allow entry to armed groups, unless they were sure the troops would not attack. Denial of entry caused hardship to troops ‘on the march’. Long detours were often necessary to secure food and supplies. Troops soon saw the benefits of establishing good relations. Freedom of Entry was a privilege not easily won but highly prized.

Freedom of the City was usually granted to naval units in recognition of the defence of seaport cities and towns. Many vessels in the Royal Australian Navy fleet carry the names of land-locked centres and the honour includes several of those as well.