Housing in Canberra is among the more expensive in Australia, though costs are still lower than in Sydney. The demand for rentals is particularly high, partly because of the transient workforce in government and defence. Rental Market As of 2024, Canberra remains one of the most expensive rental cities, with weekly rents costing around AUD 700 for homes and AUD 540 for apartment units . Competition can be tight, especially around the start of the academic year when students arrive to study at the ANU and the University of Canberra. Most rental properties are unfurnished, so include the costs of furniture in your calculations or look for short-term furnished rentals when you arrive. Buying a Home The Canberra property market is steady, with median house prices set at around AUD 1,000,000 and units averaging around AUD 600,000 . Stamp duty concessions are available for first home buyers, and the ACT is transitioning to a land tax–based system instead of traditional stamp duty over the coming years, which may influence long-term affordability. Other Areas and Neighbourhoods in the ACT There are other communities in the ACT worth considering for your move, such as: Inner North: Also referred to as North Canberra, this is popular with students and professionals. Areas like Braddon, Lyneham, and Dickson are close to the city centre and well-connected by light rail. Braddon, in particular, has a thriving café and dining scene. Inner South: A subdivision of Canberra (aka South Canberra), this well-established area features leafy suburbs like Griffith, Kingston, and Deakin. It is located close to the Parliament House and popular with diplomats and senior public servants. Kingston Foreshore offers modern apartments and waterfront dining. Belconnen: Located in the north-west, Belconnen is home to the University of Canberra, Lake Ginninderra, and major shopping centres. It’s more affordable than the inner city and popular among students and young families. Tuggeranong : Found in Canberra’s south, Tuggeranong has a more suburban feel, with larger homes and easy access to nature reserves. It appeals to families looking for space at a lower cost. Gungahlin : One of the fastest-growing areas in the ACT, Gungahlin has modern housing, new infrastructure, and light rail links to the city. It’s a popular choice for young families and new arrivals. Woden Valley : Located south of the CBD, Woden offers a balance of established homes, good schools, and access to the Woden Town Centre. It’s a hub for health services, with Canberra Hospital and the Lovett Tower (the tallest building in Canberra, which stands at 22 stories) located here.

Day-to-day cost of living in Canberra are broadly in line with other Australian capitals, with a few local quirks: excellent public transport value (90-minute transfers), regulated electricity prices, and water charges that use tiered usage rates. If you’re budgeting, the items below will cover most recurring costs for a typical household. Typical ongoing costs (AUD): Public transport (bus & light rail) : Adult peak $3.32, off-peak $2.63 per trip; 90-minute free transfer; weekday daily cap $9.89. Electricity (regulated standing offer): Supply $1.331/day; “Home” plan 755c/kWh; ACT reference usage (6,100 kWh/yr) ≈ $2,675/yr. Water & sewerage (Icon Water 2025–26) : Water supply $243.47/yr; Tier 1 $2.78/kL (first 50 kL/quarter), Tier 2 $5.58/kL; Sewerage supply $617.21/yr. Home internet (NBN 50): Common plans ~$65–$85/month (unlimited data, no lock-in with many ISPs). Childcare (long day care): Around $150–$160/day before subsidies — Care for Kids Canberra avg $149.93; Toddle Canberra avg $160.

Moving to Canberra & ACT: Your Relocation Guide

Q: Organise Your Relocation

Start by using a moving checklist . Write down everything that needs to be done: visa arrangements if you’re coming from overseas, school applications, shipping or moving schedules, and changing utilities or service connections. Remember that Canberra has four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly: heavy coats for winter, and lighter gear for the hot, dry summer. For families, try to research suburbs and schools in advance, so you don’t feel rushed on arrival.

Q: Prepare Necessary Documents

Have a folder (physical or digital) containing valid identification and documentation (including passports, visas, driver’s licences), medical records, school transcripts, employment contracts, and travel and shipping paperwork (for overseas relocation). Australians from other states should also update Medicare, Centrelink, and tax details.

Q: Make Community Connections

Canberra has strong expat communities from both the UK and NZ, as well as many interstate Australians, so it’s easier to build new social networks locally.

Q: Quick Facts About Canberra

Population: Around 460,000 people; Australia’s largest inland city Climate: Four distinct seasons—warm, dry summers; cold winters with frosts; snow in nearby ranges Government: Australia’s national capital within the ACT; governed by the ACT Government (no local councils) Lifestyle: Planned, green city around Lake Burley Griffin; bike-friendly, easy commutes, strong food & wine scene Economy: Public service, defence, tech/cyber, research and education drive most jobs Education: Australian National University (ANU), University of Canberra, and UNSW Canberra (ADFA) Highlights: Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Gallery, National Museum, Lake Burley Griffin, Mount Ainslie, Namadgi National Park, and nearby Canberra District wineries

Q: Working in Canberra and the ACT

The public sector is the biggest employer in Canberra and the greater ACT, but healthcare, education, and technology are also strong fields. The average weekly income in the ACT is higher than the national average , reflecting the territory’s skilled workforce. The ACT also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Australia .

Planning to Move to Canberra and the ACT?

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and its capital city, Canberra, aren’t always the first places in Australia people think of when planning a move to or within the country. However, there’s no denying that Canberra and the wider ACT have steadily grown into preferred destinations for families, professionals, students, and retirees alike.

With a population of just over 470,000, Canberra possesses that “big country town” feel while also offering the career and lifestyle benefits of a modern Australian city. Living in Canberra or elsewhere in the ACT often means shorter commute times, better access to nature, and a more affordable property market compared to more popular urban centres like Sydney or Melbourne. Canberra’s design, which is built around large green spaces, bike paths, and human-made Lake Burley Griffin, makes it highly liveable and easy to get around, much like the rest of the ACT.

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For Australians moving interstate, Canberra offers an opportunity to slow down without sacrificing career opportunities. Moreover, people from the UK, New Zealand, and other expats may find moving to Canberra or other locales in the ACT quite appealing because the area is less overwhelming than other Australian territories with their big, noisy capitals, while still providing access to top-tier educational, healthcare, and cultural facilities. Add in the territory’s four distinct seasons (something rare in much of Australia) and it’s no surprise it consistently ranks among the most liveable places in the country.

So, if you’re weighing up a move, it’s worth considering what life in Canberra and the ACT could look like for you.

Author | Steve Blackwell

Steve Blackwell is the founder and Director of Relocations WA, bringing over 45 years of experience in the removals industry and a lifelong commitment to delivering personalised, end-to-end relocation services.

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Why Move to Canberra or the ACT?

Canberra is more than just the Parliament House and public service jobs. People relocating to Canberra and other parts of the ACT do so for a wide mix of lifestyle, financial, and family-friendly reasons.

A growing job market: The Canberra and ACT job market is well-known for government and defence roles, but the territory’s economy is diversifying. If you’re a professional with experience in the healthcare, education, IT, and research fields, it’s worth noting that these are among the fast-growing sectors here.
Affordable housing (by capital city standards): While house prices have risen in recent years, Canberra is still generally more affordable than popular cities like Sydney and Melbourne when it comes to both buying and renting. For example, suburbs like Gungahlin and Tuggeranong offer modern housing options but at lower costs than comparable areas in larger cities.
Education and research hub: For families and academics, Canberra is home to some of the country’s top schools and universities. Here, you’ll find the Australian National University (ANU), the University of Canberra, and campuses of the University of New South Wales, the Charles Sturt University, and the Australian Catholic University.
A ‘15-minute city’ lifestyle: One quality of Canberra that makes it appealing to outsiders is the convenient lifestyle it offers. Traffic congestion is minimal here, especially when compared to that of Sydney, Perth, or Melbourne.
Outdoor lifestyle and four seasons: Landlocked and surrounded by bushland, Canberra and the rest of the ACT feature hiking, cycling, and even skiing opportunities in the nearby Snowy Mountains in New South Wales. The city experiences all four seasons, so you can enjoy spring, summer, autumn, and winter with some occasional snow. The changing seasons in the ACT are an attractive quality that appeals to Australians used to warmer climates and expats from Europe who want seasonal variation.
Culture and community: Despite its smaller size, Canberra and the ACT in general have excellent museums, galleries, and restaurants. The National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, the Australian War Memorial, and the National Museum are major attractions in the ACT. The territory also has a thriving café and craft beer scene.

For anyone moving to Canberra, Australia, or some other place in the ACT, the Capital Territory provides a good balance of affordability, career opportunities, convenience, and a good quality of life.

Factors to Consider for Interstate Moves to Canberra or the ACT

Moving to another state always requires some form of planning. Relocating to Canberra and the ACT can be easier than moving to Sydney or Melbourne because there’s less traffic and logistics tend to be simpler, but there are still some crucial considerations:

Distance and Transport Method: Most moves into Canberra happen by road, with removalists transporting goods via major highways. For cross-country relocations (e.g., Perth to Canberra), expect longer transit times and higher costs.
Housing Availability: Research the rental and property market of Canberra and the ACT well ahead of your move, and note that although housing here is more affordable than in Sydney, demand in some suburbs can be high.
Climate Adjustment: If you’re moving from coastal cities like Brisbane or Perth, prepare for cooler winters and frosty mornings in the ACT.

Moving From Melbourne to Canberra Moving From Sydney to Canberra Moving From Perth to Canberra

Moving From Melbourne to Canberra

A Melbourne to Canberra move can be manageable, although you still need to have a proper plan to ensure a smooth relocation.

Distance and Travel Time: Melbourne is around 660 km from Canberra, about a 7-hour drive via the Hume Highway. This somewhat manageable distance makes moving to Canberra a relatively straightforward process.
Moving Expenses: Removalist costs for a Melbourne to Canberra move are typically lower than longer interstate moves, as trucks can complete the journey in a single day. For many, Canberra offers a quieter, less congested alternative to Melbourne’s urban sprawl, while still keeping family and friends within a reasonable driving distance.

Moving From Sydney to Canberra

Relocating to Canberra from Sydney is generally an easier undertaking than, say, if you’re coming from Perth or Melbourne.

Distance and Travel Time: Sydney is just 286 km away from Canberra, and the travel duration is about a 3-hour drive on the Federal Highway. Since the ACT is a landlocked territory, its proximity to Sydney is a big advantage if you want to move somewhere more affordable or quieter while also having relatively easy access to the beaches in Sydney.
Moving Expenses: A Sydney to Canberra move is one of the shortest and most affordable interstate relocations in Australia. Many professionals choose Canberra for the lifestyle it offers while keeping their connections in Sydney.

Moving From Perth to Canberra

Unlike moving from Melbourne or Sydney to Canberra, relocating to the latter from Perth could be a major undertaking, so it requires thorough planning.

Distance and Travel Time: With a driving distance estimated between 3,600 km and more than 3,700 km (depending on the route), moving from Perth to Canberra is a relatively laborious process. Driving could take 36 hours or more, so most movers choose professional interstate removalists like Relocations WA as they can consolidate loads to reduce costs and ensure efficiency.
Moving Expenses: Since transporting a household can take 7 to 14 days door-to-door, expect relocation expenses to be higher. But remember, the relocation cost can be offset for some by Canberra’s affordability compared to Perth.

Moving to Canberra should feel like a new chapter, not a headache. With Relocations WA as your interstate removalist, we’ll organise the timeline, pack with care, and manage transport end-to-end—so you can focus on settling into life in the ACT.

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Moving to Canberra or the ACT From Abroad

Relocating to Canberra from overseas is a much bigger undertaking than an interstate move, but it can be done smoothly with the right planning and by working with a seasoned international removals partner.

From travel documentation and shipping to budgeting and settling into the ACT’s unique climate, people moving from overseas need to think through each step carefully, whether they’re relocating to Canberra from the United Kingdom or New Zealand, and vice versa.

Moving From the UK to Canberra and the ACT Moving From NZ to Canberra and the ACT

Moving From the UK to Canberra and the ACT

Relocating from overseas is a generally complex matter. So, moving from the United Kingdom to Australia or, more specifically, to Canberra or other parts of the ACT is no small feat.

Distance and Travel Time: The UK is roughly 17,000 km from Canberra, with flights usually taking over 22 to 29 hours, depending on whether you’re taking a one-stop or connecting flight. There are currently no direct flights into Canberra, so arrivals typically connect through Sydney or Melbourne.
Shipping/Moving Expenses: One-way fares from the UK to Australia (Sydney) can range between AUD 1,450 and AUD 5,440, depending on the airline and date, but it’s possible to get cheaper tickets during promotions. Shipping furniture and belongings takes time and money, so some people choose to hold garage sales to get rid of bulky items and buy new ones in Canberra to reduce costs.
Immigration Documents: UK citizens generally require a visa before arrival, typically in the form of a skilled migration visa, employer-sponsored visa, or student visa, depending on your circumstances.

Moving From NZ to Canberra and the ACT

The New Zealand–Australia connection and shorter distance (about 2,200 kilometres) between the two neighbouring countries make moving from NZ to Canberra an easier process.

Distance and Travel Time: The flight time from Auckland to Sydney is only about three hours, with an additional one-hour flight or a three-hour drive to Canberra from Sydney.
Shipping/Moving Expenses: Shipping from NZ is faster and cheaper than if your belongings are coming all the way from Europe. Of course, how much shipping and moving costs add up to depends on the shipping method and the volume of your belongings.
Immigration Documents: New Zealand citizens can typically live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely on a Special Category Visa (subclass 444), granted on arrival if you meet eligibility conditions.

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Tips for Moving to Canberra or the ACT

A successful move is built on adequate preparation. The following steps can help keep the process of relocating to Canberra interstate or from abroad manageable, cost-effective, and less stressful.

Organise Your Relocation

Start by using a moving checklist. Write down everything that needs to be done: visa arrangements if you’re coming from overseas, school applications, shipping or moving schedules, and changing utilities or service connections. Remember that Canberra has four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly: heavy coats for winter, and lighter gear for the hot, dry summer. For families, try to research suburbs and schools in advance, so you don’t feel rushed on arrival.

Prepare Necessary Documents

Find Relocation Service

Professional relocation services like Relocations WA can handle everything, from packing and shipping to temporary housing. For international moves, door-to-door shipping reduces the stress of coordinating multiple providers. Local knowledge is valuable too, and some firms offer orientation tours in Canberra to help familiarise new residents or expats with the city’s layout, transportation options, and services.

Organise Storage

If you’re not ready to move all your belongings at once, storage can be a practical option. Canberra has multiple short- and long-term storage facilities, useful for students or families waiting to acquire permanent housing. If you’re coming from abroad, consider using storage at your place of origin before shipping, so you can have flexibility in case your visas or flights are delayed.

Make Community Connections

Moving Vehicles and Pets to Canberra and the ACT

When planning a move to Canberra or anywhere in the ACT, two major factors require extra preparation: moving vehicles and pets. Both involve paperwork, compliance with local rules, and a bit of forward planning.

Bringing Vehicles to Canberra or the ACT

If you are moving to Canberra from another state, you’ll need to register your vehicle in the ACT once you’ve established residency. The ACT requires interstate vehicles to be inspected at an authorised inspection station before you can switch to ACT plates.

Make sure to bring the following:

proof of identity
proof of residence
current vehicle registration papers
roadworthiness inspection report

For those moving from overseas, the process is more complex. Importing a vehicle into Australia is subject to regulations, standards, taxes, and duties. Cars must meet Australian safety and emissions standards, and in most cases, a roadworthy inspection is mandatory once the car arrives.

Bringing Pets to Canberra or the ACT

Australia has strict biosecurity laws, and the ACT is no exception.

Pets entering from overseas must meet import requirements set by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Dogs and cats typically need to spend a couple of days (the duration depends on the country of origin) in quarantine on arrival, and requirements include but are not limited to the following:

vet checks and certification
vaccinations (including rabies)
parasite treatments

Interstate moves with pets are simpler. Pets travelling by car generally don’t need extra paperwork, although it’s a good idea to check vaccination records and ensure your pet is microchipped, as required by ACT law. For air travel within Australia, pets are usually transported in airline-approved crates.

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Living and Working in Canberra or the ACT

Life in Canberra combines the feel of a regional city with the services of the nation’s capital. Canberra (and the rest of the ACT) is known for its wide, open spaces, strong job market in the government and education, and a slower pace of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. But it’s also a city where planning matters, so knowing where to live, how much to budget, and how to get around can make your move and life here smoother.

Quick Facts About Canberra

Population: Around 460,000 people; Australia’s largest inland city
Climate: Four distinct seasons—warm, dry summers; cold winters with frosts; snow in nearby ranges
Government: Australia’s national capital within the ACT; governed by the ACT Government (no local councils)
Lifestyle: Planned, green city around Lake Burley Griffin; bike-friendly, easy commutes, strong food & wine scene
Economy: Public service, defence, tech/cyber, research and education drive most jobs
Education: Australian National University (ANU), University of Canberra, and UNSW Canberra (ADFA)
Highlights: Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Gallery, National Museum, Lake Burley Griffin, Mount Ainslie, Namadgi National Park, and nearby Canberra District wineries

Housing in Canberra

Housing in Canberra is among the more expensive in Australia, though costs are still lower than in Sydney. The demand for rentals is particularly high, partly because of the transient workforce in government and defence.

Rental Market
As of 2024, Canberra remains one of the most expensive rental cities, with weekly rents costing around AUD 700 for homes and AUD 540 for apartment units. Competition can be tight, especially around the start of the academic year when students arrive to study at the ANU and the University of Canberra. Most rental properties are unfurnished, so include the costs of furniture in your calculations or look for short-term furnished rentals when you arrive.

Buying a Home
The Canberra property market is steady, with median house prices set at around AUD 1,000,000 and units averaging around AUD 600,000. Stamp duty concessions are available for first home buyers, and the ACT is transitioning to a land tax–based system instead of traditional stamp duty over the coming years, which may influence long-term affordability.

Other Areas and Neighbourhoods in the ACT

There are other communities in the ACT worth considering for your move, such as:

Inner North: Also referred to as North Canberra, this is popular with students and professionals. Areas like Braddon, Lyneham, and Dickson are close to the city centre and well-connected by light rail. Braddon, in particular, has a thriving café and dining scene.
Inner South: A subdivision of Canberra (aka South Canberra), this well-established area features leafy suburbs like Griffith, Kingston, and Deakin. It is located close to the Parliament House and popular with diplomats and senior public servants. Kingston Foreshore offers modern apartments and waterfront dining.
Belconnen: Located in the north-west, Belconnen is home to the University of Canberra, Lake Ginninderra, and major shopping centres. It’s more affordable than the inner city and popular among students and young families.
Tuggeranong: Found in Canberra’s south, Tuggeranong has a more suburban feel, with larger homes and easy access to nature reserves. It appeals to families looking for space at a lower cost.
Gungahlin: One of the fastest-growing areas in the ACT, Gungahlin has modern housing, new infrastructure, and light rail links to the city. It’s a popular choice for young families and new arrivals.
Woden Valley: Located south of the CBD, Woden offers a balance of established homes, good schools, and access to the Woden Town Centre. It’s a hub for health services, with Canberra Hospital and the Lovett Tower (the tallest building in Canberra, which stands at 22 stories) located here.

Working in Canberra and the ACT

Cost of Living

Day-to-day cost of living in Canberra are broadly in line with other Australian capitals, with a few local quirks: excellent public transport value (90-minute transfers), regulated electricity prices, and water charges that use tiered usage rates. If you’re budgeting, the items below will cover most recurring costs for a typical household.

Typical ongoing costs (AUD):

Public transport (bus & light rail): Adult peak $3.32, off-peak $2.63 per trip; 90-minute free transfer; weekday daily cap $9.89.
Electricity (regulated standing offer): Supply $1.331/day; “Home” plan 755c/kWh; ACT reference usage (6,100 kWh/yr) ≈ $2,675/yr.
Water & sewerage (Icon Water 2025–26): Water supply $243.47/yr; Tier 1 $2.78/kL (first 50 kL/quarter), Tier 2 $5.58/kL; Sewerage supply $617.21/yr.
Home internet (NBN 50): Common plans ~$65–$85/month (unlimited data, no lock-in with many ISPs).
Childcare (long day care): Around $150–$160/day before subsidies — Care for Kids Canberra avg $149.93; Toddle Canberra avg $160.

Public Transport

Canberra is built for easy movement: wide arterial roads, short cross-town trips, and plenty of parking around town centres. Many residents drive for day-to-day errands, but cycling is genuinely practical thanks to a dense path network, lake-loop rides, and green corridors linking suburbs to Civic. You’ll also see shared e-scooters in inner districts—handy for the “last kilometre” between a light-rail stop and a café, gallery, or office.

Public transport is run by Transport Canberra and combines a frequent bus network with a modern light rail spine connecting northern suburbs to the city, with buses fanning out to Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong and the airport shuttle options via interchanges. Fares are simple and integrated—tap on/off with a MyWay card (or buy single trips) and make use of a transfer window between services. Park-and-Ride sites near major stops make it easy to leave the car and finish your journey by light rail or bus. For planning, use the online journey planner or real-time maps to check arrivals, and consider mixing modes—drive or cycle to a hub, then jump on public transport for a stress-free run into Civic.

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