Step into a city where the eucalyptus-scented air mingles with the formal rhythm of flagpoles and fountains. Canberra may be Australia’s youngest capital, but its charm lies in how beautifully it balances political weight with everyday life.
Yes, Canberra is one of Australia's most thoughtfully designed cities—where wide boulevards, cultural landmarks, and bushland beauty create a rhythm that locals grow to love.
Smart city design: Canberra isn’t just well planned—it’s designed to function beautifully. From the central Parliamentary Triangle to bike paths and open green space, its layout works with the landscape, not against it.
Civic and cultural heartbeat: In 1927, Australia’s Federal Parliament moved from Melbourne to Canberra, making it the new national capital. Since then, the city has become home to institutions like the High Court, National Gallery, and the Museum of Australian Democracy.
Nature at your doorstep: The bush capital vibe is real—weekends often mean walks up Mount Ainslie, cycling around Lake Burley Griffin, or spotting roos in the suburbs.
Food and café scene: Inner-south gems like Kingston and Manuka buzz with cafés, bakeries, and seasonal menus.
Events that bring people together: Floriade, Enlighten Festival, the Balloon Spectacular—there’s a strong sense of community, with something always going on.
Canberra combines the order of a capital city with the warmth of a big country town. It’s calm, clean, and clever.
Housing and neighbourhoods
You'll find everything from high-rise living in Braddon to spacious homes in leafy suburbs like Deakin or Ainslie. The market is less frenzied than Sydney, with many homes offering great value and energy-efficient features.
Walkability and lifestyle
Pathways, bike lanes, and urban design make getting around easy—whether you’re walking to the bus stop, cycling to work, or scootering to the local café.
Safety and diversity
It’s one of Australia’s safest cities, and thanks to its many embassies, universities and public service hubs, it’s also culturally diverse. Neighbourhoods are peaceful and full of friendly faces.
Education and healthcare
The Australian National University (ANU) and University of Canberra drive the academic heartbeat, while Canberra Hospital and Calvary Public Hospital offer high-quality healthcare.
Transport and connectivity
A modern light rail system links Gungahlin to the CBD, and buses cover most suburbs. Roads are well maintained, and parking is surprisingly easy for a capital city.
Electricity and utilities
ActewAGL is the main electricity provider, offering reliable services and green energy options. Blackouts are rare, and most homes are equipped for Canberra’s chilly winters with ducted heating or split systems.
Water and sanitation
Icon Water manages water supply and wastewater—tap water is high-quality and safe to drink. Sewerage systems are modern and well maintained across all districts.
Internet and mobile
Canberra leads with fast NBN connections across most suburbs. Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone all offer strong mobile coverage, and public Wi-Fi is available in many libraries and town centres.
Cleaning and waste services
ACT Government runs weekly rubbish and fortnightly recycling collections. Garden waste bins are available in most areas. There’s also access to a wide range of private cleaning services for homes and businesses.
Smart infrastructure
Canberra has embraced smart city upgrades—like energy-efficient street lighting, electric vehicle charging stations, and sensor-based public services in newer precincts.
Walk the Mount Ainslie Summit trail for sweeping city views
Visit New and Old Parliament House, with public galleries and exhibits
Cycle around Lake Burley Griffin, stopping at galleries and cafés
Explore the National Gallery, National Museum or Questacon
Enjoy the cool-climate wines on a day trip to Murrumbateman or Lake George
Browse the Old Bus Depot Markets every Sunday
Attend Floriade or the Canberra Balloon Spectacular
Catch a show at Canberra Theatre Centre or an outdoor gig in the park
Eat your way through Braddon’s laneways, with sourdough bakeries, craft beer, and gourmet bites
“We moved here from Brisbane for work in 2015 and never looked back,” says Michael, a father of two and small business owner. “I love how everything’s 20 minutes away—from bushwalking to grabbing Vietnamese in Dickson. The kids’ school is a five-minute bike ride, and the whole neighbourhood turns up for the community fair each year.”
From tech start-ups to retirees, locals appreciate the manageable pace and the strong sense of community. Anyone who’s watched hot air balloons lift off in the misty morning light above Lake Burley Griffin will tell you—this city has soul.
Canberra is more than just the nation’s capital—it’s a lifestyle city built for living well. With world-class facilities, a sense of space, and a community that values both quiet and curiosity, it might surprise you in the best way. What body moved to Canberra in 1927? Australia’s Federal Parliament—and ever since, it’s been the city where decisions are made and new lives begin.
H3: What body moved to Canberra in 1927?
Australia’s Federal Parliament relocated from Melbourne to Canberra in 1927, officially establishing it as the seat of government.
H3: Does Canberra get snow in winter?
Occasionally, light snow falls on the outskirts, especially near Tidbinbilla. The city itself gets cold and frosty, but rarely sees snow settle.
H3: Is Canberra suitable for families?
Yes—excellent schools, large homes, safe suburbs, and parks everywhere make it ideal for raising kids.
National Archives: Moving the Capital to Canberra
ABC Education: Federation & the move to Canberra
Parliamentary Library: History of Parliament's move to Canberra
ACT Government: Environmental planning in Canberra
Canberra Tracks: Historical places and heritage trails
Australian Government: Cities policy and planning — relevant for Canberra’s development
CSIRO: Future energy and sustainability in Australia
Australian Academy of Humanities: Canberra history report
Clean Energy Council: Sustainable energy solutions in Australia
Museum of Australian Democracy: Stories about Canberra as the capital
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With local programs and rebates encouraging energy-efficient upgrades, companies now have more opportunities to reduce laundry electricity and gas costs in Canberra through smarter investments in eco-friendly laundry technology.