Visit the Australian Capital Territory

Created in the early 1900's as the new base for the Australian federal government,  Canberra is the urban centre of the Australian Capital Territory, boasting stylish restaurants, bars, boutique shopping and a calendar of events and festivals.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘bush capital’, the state is rich in native bushland, extending almost to the city centre. Forming the centrepiece of the city, the man made Lake Burley Griffin is used for a wide variety of activities including rowing, fishing, and sailing.

Many of the country’s most important monuments are here in Canberra, including the Australian War Memorial, Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia and Canberra's newest attraction, the National Museum of Australia.

Surrounded by the state of New South Wales, the landscape is predominantly rugged hills and mountains of which more than 50 percent is protected national parkland. Explore walking trails to beautiful vistas, magical swimming spots along the Murrumbridge River and charming villages at Tharwa and Hall. Visit the collection of uniquely Australian art at the Nolan Gallery, and admire the beauty of the historic Lanyon Homestead.

The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and the Namadgi National Park, just 45 minutes from the city, offer delightful wildflowers and a rich array of native wildlife. Explore numerous walking trails through the northern Australian Alps featuring Aboriginal shelters and excellent examples of Indigenous rock art.