KEY INFORMATION

Canberra is the capital of Australia. It is situated within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), located inland between Sydney and Melbourne, and surrounded by the state of New South Wales.

Time Zone

Canberra’s time zone is Australian Eastern Standard Time (GMT plus 10 hours), the same as Sydney and Melbourne.

Climate

Canberra has four distinct seasons, with the environment changing as the seasons do. All year round, Canberra is loved for its clean air, stunning sunsets, and beautiful nature. Seasonal temperatures in Celsius are:

Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm

Friday 9am to 9pm

Saturday 9am to 5pm

Sunday 10am to 4pm

The national institutions offer a wide selection of gift purchases, locally and Australian made, perfect for delegate and speaker gifts.

A range of markets are held in Canberra, including Capital Region Farmers Market, Old Bus Depot Markets and the Handmade Market as well as new options such as the Little Burley Markets on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. Stall holders at these markets sell a wide range of produce and artisanal fare from local makers, farmers, and growers and present a lovely alternative for unique Canberra gifts and souvenirs.

Supermarkets and large retailers are often open longer hours. Stores may also be open longer in the lead up to special occasions such as Christmas.

GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)

Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% on most goods and services. It is included in the advertised price and is not added on when you pay.

Visas And Electronic Travel Authority

All international visitors to Australia, except New Zealand travellers, require a visa to travel to and enter Australia. They must apply for their visa prior to entering Australia. The most common visa for business purposes is the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for Business Visitors, valid for visits up to three months. It can be obtained for entry to Australia using the ETA app.

Canberra And Region Visitors Centre

Located at Regatta Point on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre offers assistance with a range of questions and the friendly staff can help you find entertainment, accommodation or restaurant options. If you have time for shopping, don’t miss the unique Canberra region food, wine and gifts stocked at the centre.

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, and weekends and public holidays 9am to 4pm.

Closed Christmas Day.

National Capital Exhibition

Co-located with the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre, the National Capital Exhibition tells the Story of Canberra as the capital city of Australia. The multi-media exhibition shares the town planning vision of Walter and Marion Burley Griffin, who created a city unique in design, combining seamlessly the city’s infrastructure with the surrounding natural landscapes.

Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and weekends 10am to 4pm, closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Guided tours daily at 11am. Free entry.

Planning an event beyond 2023? Parliamentary sitting date patterns are often similar from year to year, and help you determine the best period to bring your conference to Canberra, allowing for a wider selection of accommodation and meeting venues across the capital.

A COLLABORATIVE INDUSTRY A WORLD-CLASS BUSINESS EVENTS CITY

Newacton And Canberra City

Whether it’s catching a show at Canberra Theatre Centre or lacing up for a game at Kingpin Canberra, it’s easy to explore Canberra’s city centre on foot, and discover the constant stream of new dining options, shopping, and entertainment on offer. Venture a few minutes west and you’ll find the hotels, eateries, art and architecture of the exciting NewActon precinct, including the award-winning Nishi Building.

National Triangle

Australian Parliament House may be the focal point of Canberra’s National Triangle, but there’s plenty more to discover here, from the country’s most iconic museums, galleries, and institutions, to architecture, dining, and ample hotel options, all hugging the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin.

Braddon

Right on the edge of the CBD, Braddon is the place to go for hip cafes, chic cocktails, lively eateries, and boutique shops. Try a cosy tipple at Midnight Bar, a healthy brunch at Gather Cafe, vegan treats at Sweet Bones Cafe, indulgent creations at Enigma Fine Chocolates, or sophisticated dining at Italian and Sons.

Kingston And Manuka

These inner south precincts are steeped in history, and beautiful older buildings sit harmoniously alongside modern precincts. Catch a match at Manuka Oval, find something special at the shopping boutiques of Manuka, watch creativity in action at the Canberra Glassworks, or settle in for a lakeside meal at Kingston Foreshore.

Woden

In the south, the town centre of Woden has been completely revitalised in recent years, making it well worth a trip. There are plenty of delicious spots to dine along Bradley Street, while The Alby and Eightysix South are new additions taking Woden to new culinary heights.

Belconnen

Just 10 minutes north-west of the city, Belconnen is home to GIO Stadium and the Australian Institute of Sport. But there’s a lot more to the area than just sport. There are countless options to shop, eat or stay, while Belconnen Arts Centre hosts an exciting arts program in a beautiful lakefront location.

Fyshwick

Once Canberra’s industrial suburb, Fyshwick is now a destination in its own right. Discover breweries, coffee roasteries, antiques, and exciting restaurants. At the Dairy Road precinct, bond with your team as you learn to ski at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports’ indoor ski slope, or try yoga, freshly brewed coffee or beer, or grab a bowl of ramen and other Japanese fare at Canteen.