ACTPlanned settlement
Canberra
A city created to be the nation’s capital.
1913National capital named · site chosen in 1908
WHAT STARTED IT
Federation required a national seat of government. Parliament chose the Yass–Canberra district as a compromise between Sydney and Melbourne.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The Griffin plan shaped the new capital. Construction was gradual, with parliament moving from Melbourne in 1927 and later expansion creating the larger city of lakes, institutions and suburbs. The first Gungahlin–City light-rail stage began public operations on 20 April 2019.
TURNING POINTS
1908The district is chosen for the capital.
1913The name Canberra is announced.
1927Federal Parliament begins sitting here.
2019The first Gungahlin–City light-rail stage began public operations on 20 April.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
Australia’s national capital, with government, diplomacy, universities, research and major cultural collections. Its deliberate political purpose remains its defining role.