Residents have been voicing their grievances about Carnival 2024, including concerns over the parade route and the one-song competition format.

The Minister of Creative Industries, Daryll Matthew, has acknowledged these concerns and says changes may be on the way.

Addressing the competition format, the Minister stated: “I believe it’s fair to say that we may have to revisit the one-competition format as opposed to two. I believe the overwhelming sentiment is that the groovy artists really get overshadowed by the jumpy parts of the competition, or the jumpy artists.”

He went on to say that “at some point in time, before next carnival, we will have to have a discussion to see how we can structure the competition” to ensure that “all of those artists who produce that groovy music could really be recognized, and the value of the music appreciated in the competition.”

The parade route has also been a point of contention. According to the Minister, while the adjusted route that went across Camacho Avenue and onto Allsaints Road and Market Street “flowed smoother,” the long distance has led to complaints about sore feet.

The Minister acknowledged, “it continues to be a work in progress” as the perennial debate continues over whether the parade should remain downtown, out of town, or a combination.

The Minister said they have started “informal discussions about the schedule of activities for Canberra and the lineup of events, particularly for that final week.”

The objective is to “put together a schedule of activities at the best possible time to capitalize and ensure that everyone has a fantastic experience.”