Australian Capital Territory

Australia’s capital and smallest self-governing state, ACT is pretty much Canberra. Situated in bushland in inland New South Wales, the idea to carve ACT out of the larger NSW region was conceived during the late 1800s, when both Melbourne and Sydney were vying to be the country’s capital.

While Canberra is the beating heart of this region, and the seat of government, there are some attractive small towns found outside of the city, as well as the Namadji National Park, home to some quintessentially Aussie wildlife. Comprising a whopping 46% of the area of the state, Namadji isn’t the only national park in the region, there is also Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Australian Capital Territory Facts

The rest of ACT is made up of agricultural lands, with many cattle farmed here, not to mention vineyards, of which there are 140!

Culturally, this is a rich area, given the history of Canberra. The National Museum of Australia’s is one of the countries finest, while there are stacks of galleries and craft shops found here.

National attractions and must sees include the Australian War Memorial, Old Parliament House, the National Gallery and Questacon, the National Science and technology centre - a huge wealth of diversions given the region’s tiny size!

Thinking of moving to Australia’s capital territory? Read our guide to emigrating to Australia, full of tips and advice on relocation. And should you need extra help and support, join our lively Australian community and meet people who are already living in Australia or are thinking of going, make new friends and benefit from members’ own experiences.

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High Court, Canberra. Courtesy of Australia

Anzac Parade. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Floriade festival, Canberra. Courtesy of Tourism Australia

Parliament House, Canberra. Courtesy of Tourism Australia