The likely returned Labor/Greens alliance has a mandate to deliver the controversial light rail project for the territory.

The 2016 election has been fought by both major parties as a referendum on light rail and this overwhelming support of ACT Labor shows Canberrans have formally embraced the project.

It has become clear the opposition to the project was led by a small minority and the returning of the incumbent government should silence the critics.

Despite the strong campaign of the Canberra Liberals, the voters have delivered what appears to be a small swing towards Labor and a larger one away from the opposition.

Voters have soundly rejected the opposition's alterative to light rail and strong health and hospital policies.

Returning Chief Minister Andrew Barr has been delivered a mandate to continue to govern the territory and progress his platform of investment and growth.

Canberrans have put their faith in Mr Barr's agenda for the ACT and have appeared to forgive transgressions over transparency and communication over planning decisions.

The Chief Minister should be confident in the knowledge that the territory backs him and his Labor/Greens government.

But it is important he keeps the promises made during the election campaign to improve the transparency of government.

There is still an element of doubt about several decisions of the previous government and these must be addressed.

At times during the past four years, the previous government has been complacent, lost and apparently hard of hearing over what the community wants.

Despite this, the territory has opted to give the party another chance and have re-elected them for a record fifth term.

In his victory speech, Mr Barr said Canberrans had voted for a positive agenda with a progressive future.

It is now his job to live up to the expectations of the voters who have placed their trust in him for another term of government.