Canberra History
The Salvation Army has been serving the nation’s capital since 1929, providing spiritual, emotional and practical assistance to all in need.
Formative Years
The first Salvation Army Hall in Canberra was in Braddon and was officially opened on 6 July 1929 in the presence of the chief guest of honour for the occasion, Sir John Butters, Chief Commissioner, Federal Capital Terri...
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A place of worship
In the early days, The Salvation Army quickly expanded to Kingston, where meetings were held in the “Friendly Society Hall”. The local history book records that on most Sundays the officers and soldiers wou...
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Sending out the troops
Salvationists in Canberra have always been blessed with the original pioneering spirit that helped the Army spread across Australia like wildfire. From the Canberra City Corps, Salvationists such as Kelvin and Julie Alle...
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Canberra Greats - Alan Jessop
Alan Jessop is a Salvation Army soldier who was a national finalist in the 'Australia's Local Hero' 2011 awards.
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Canberra Greats - Kelvin Alley
Lieut-Colonel Kelvin Alley, a Salvation Army officer who moved to Canberra in his teenage years, went back to serve as The Salvation Army's National Secretary.
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In times of need
It’s often said that The Salvation Army has a ministry of “presence” – of being there in times of need. When bushfires ripped through Canberra suburbs in January 2003, The Salvation Army was o...
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Recovery Services
In 1973, The Salvation Army opened “Mancare” in Canberra, a multi-purpose facility that included assistance for men struggling with alcohol and other addictions and/or homelessness. The service has evolved...
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The Salvation Army in Canberra today
The Salvation Army remains a vibrant presence in the Canberra community today. Our chaplains visit courts, prisons and hospitals. Our Red Shield Defence Services personnel support troops at the local Defence Force Academ...
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