A guide to living in Canberra

Learn about Australia's politics

Visit Parliament House and Old Parliament House and learn more about Australia's past, present and future. You'll see politicians in action if you visit Parliament House during one of their sessions. Old Parliament House will give you a better understanding of how Australia was established as a nation and you'll enjoy hands-on exhibitions.

Spend time at the museum

Canberra has a lot of different museums and art galleries on offer for classic, modern and cultural enthusiasts. Wherever your interests lie, you will find a museum or gallery to match.

Hike Mt Ainslie

Mt Ainslie has the best view of Canberra. You will get to enjoy views of Lake Burley Griffin, the Australian War Memorial and parliament.

Buses

Buses are the main form of public transport in Canberra. The city's public bus service is called ACTION and has four bus interchanges, Civic, Belconnen, Tuggeranong and Woden.

Light rail

Light rail runs from along Northbourne Avenue and Flemington Road, from the City to Gungahlin. It uses the same ticket, same fare, same rules as the bus system, so it's a convenient connection between light rail and bus.

Taxis

There are many taxi ranks located around the city and each town centre, including most campuses. Taxi ranks are specific areas where you can line up and get a taxi, otherwise you can try hailing one from the side of the road.

Uber

In Canberra, Uber was regulated from the beginning, including regulations around driver background checks, vehicle inspections and insurance requirements. So whether you want to catch a cab or book an Uber, you know you can choose either with peace of mind.

Civic and Acton

Civic and Acton is Canberra's cultural hub with plenty of options to shop, eat and sightsee. You can choose from a range of different museums and galleries to visit, surrounded by a selection of local pubs and bars.

Braddon and Dickson

For those living or travelling on a small budget, Braddon and Dickson are the places to go. Dickson is often known as Canderra's Chinatown whilst Braddon is where people go to get their coffee fix. If you're looking for some physical activity during the day, wander around Haig Park with its dense, green trees.

Parkes and Kingston

Canberra is filled with insightful museums and art galleries. However, to get a deeper understanding of the city's beauty, make sure you take a look across the lake from Civic. You will spot the beautiful Kingston, Foreshore and Parkes.

Bruce and Belconnen

These areas are also known as the hub for students. With their world-class sporting grounds and largest shopping centre in Canberra the areas attract local and international students alike. Come here for reasonably priced eateries and exciting nightlife options.

Museums

• National Museum of Australia

• Australian War Memorial

• Museum of Australian Democracy

• Canberra Railway Museum

• National Film & Sound Archive of Australia

Galleries

• National Portrait Gallery

• Belconnen Arts Centre

• Canberra Museum & Gallery

• Canberra Contemporary Art Space

• Drill Hall Gallery

Markets

• Old Bus Depot Markets

• Capital Region Farmers Market

• Handmade Market

• Belconnen Fresh Food Markets

• Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets

Music venues

• Transit Bar

• UC Refectory

• The Basement

• The Phoenix

• Smith's Alternative