Capital City of Australia
Australia's capital city is Canberra, which is often confused with larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Here’s why Canberra holds this title:
Historical Context
- Federation Decision: After Australia became a federation in 1901, there was a debate over which city should be the capital. Sydney and Melbourne were the two largest cities, but neither wanted the other to be the capital.
- Neutral Location: To resolve this, it was decided to build a new city as the capital, located between the two. Thus, Canberra was established in 1913.
Geography and Design
- Planned City: Canberra was designed by American architect Walter Burley Griffin. It features a unique layout with parks, gardens, and open spaces, making it distinct from other Australian cities.
- Location: Situated in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Canberra is at the center of national government activities, making it a strategic choice.
Government Significance
- Political Center: Canberra houses important national institutions, including the Parliament House, the High Court, and various government departments. This centralization of political power emphasizes its role as the capital.
- Cultural Institutions: The city is also home to several national museums and galleries, showcasing Australia’s heritage and culture.
In conclusion, Canberra was chosen as a compromise to balance the interests of Australia’s largest cities and serves as the political and cultural heart of the nation.

Following a long dispute over whether Sydney or Melbourne should be the national capital, a compromise was reached: the new capital would be built in New South Wales, so long as it was at least 100 mi (160 km) from Sydney. The capital city was founded and formally named as Canberra in 1913.