Wake to crisp mountain air and the hush of gum trees, then sip a world-class coffee by Lake Burley Griffin as hot-air balloons float overhead. Canberra surprises. It hums with cultural depth, natural beauty, and a quiet confidence that often catches first-timers off guard.
Yes, Canberra is one of Australia's most liveable and fascinating cities, offering more than just politics and roundabouts.
Bush meets city: More than half of the ACT is protected reserve or national park. Kangaroos graze near suburban footpaths, and trails like Mount Ainslie and Black Mountain offer jaw-dropping views of the city framed by Brindabella ranges.
Culture on tap: As Australia’s capital, Canberra is home to the National Gallery, National Museum, War Memorial, and Parliament House—all free to enter.
Cafes and craft beer: The inner north buzzes with independent roasters, breweries like BentSpoke and Capital Brewing Co., and seasonal farmers' markets that rival Melbourne's.
Four true seasons: From fiery autumn leaves in Yarralumla to crisp winters perfect for truffle hunting, Canberra's seasons are distinct and beautiful.
Events and energy: Enlighten Festival, Floriade, and Balloon Spectacular fill the calendar. There’s always something blooming or glowing.
Canberra is a clean, well-planned city with an unbeatable balance of space, nature, and infrastructure. Locals enjoy wide streets, bike paths, and suburban centres that feel more like village hubs than city sprawl.
Housing: Homes are spacious and surrounded by green belts. While property prices have climbed, Canberra remains more affordable than Sydney.
Walkability & vibe: Suburbs like Braddon and Kingston are walkable and trendy, while places like Belconnen and Gungahlin offer great amenities for families.
Safety: It consistently ranks as one of Australia’s safest cities. Streets are well-lit, and public spaces feel secure.
Diversity: With embassies, universities, and a growing migrant population, Canberra has a quietly multicultural heart.
Services: World-class hospitals, public transport (including light rail), NBN fibre coverage, and reliable cleaning and recycling services make day-to-day life smooth.
Education: From ANU to Radford College and local public schools, Canberra has outstanding learning options across all stages.
Canberra is known for its well-maintained and future-focused infrastructure:
Electricity and Water: The ACT enjoys stable, reliable electricity supply and clean water sourced from protected catchments. ActewAGL and Icon Water manage these essential services with strong sustainability goals.
Internet and Connectivity: High-speed internet, including widespread NBN fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP), supports Canberra's tech-savvy workforce and smart home lifestyles.
Waste and Cleaning Services: Canberra has an efficient waste management system, including weekly rubbish and recycling collections, green waste services, and hard rubbish pickups. Public spaces and parks are well-maintained by ACT Government contractors.
Transport: The integrated public transport network includes buses, a growing light rail system, and well-connected bike paths. Roads are wide and well-signposted, easing traffic flow.
Healthcare: Hospitals like Canberra Hospital and Calvary Public provide excellent care, complemented by a wide network of GPs, specialists, and allied health services.
Walk the lakeside loop around Lake Burley Griffin (great for jogs, picnics or Segway tours)
Explore the National Arboretum—a global collection of trees with sweeping views
Visit the Australian War Memorial, arguably the country’s most moving national site
Go gallery-hopping: NGA, Portrait Gallery, and local gems like Canberra Contemporary Art Space
Shop and dine at the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets
Take the kids to Questacon (the National Science and Technology Centre)
Drive out to Tidbinbilla for wildlife spotting and space history at the Deep Space Communication Complex
Sample local wine in the cool-climate vineyards of Murrumbateman, just 30 mins away
"Anyone who's spent a lazy Sunday at the Old Bus Depot Markets or biked through the ANU campus during golden hour knows Canberra isn't boring — it's just peaceful," says Mia, a teacher and lifelong local. "It's the kind of place where your barista knows your name, but you're also 10 minutes from snow gums or symphonies."
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for a tree change with substance, Canberra deserves a second look. With its blend of nature, culture, and community, it's more than just Australia's political capital—it's a place people quietly fall in love with.
Oh, and if you're wondering: yes, Melbourne was the capital of Australia before Canberra.
National Museum of Australia’s article about Canberra becoming the capital.
Australian Parliament history of the capital selection process.
Australian Bureau of Statistics page on Melbourne's growth and development.
Museums Victoria article on Melbourne’s time as Australia’s interim capital.
Australian Government summary of how Canberra became the capital.
The Conversation – history of Canberra’s selection as capital.
NGV article on Melbourne’s role in federation and national politics.
Archived newspaper article from Trove discussing Melbourne’s capital role pre-Canberra.
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For many businesses, utility bills are one of the biggest ongoing expenses. By adopting smarter laundry practices, you can not only cut down on waste but also reduce laundry electricity and gas costs in Canberra, where energy prices have been steadily rising.