As a city of over 350,000 people, Canberra plays many roles – it is our national capital, host to the Australian Government, home to famous national institutions and monuments, and internationally recognised for the quality of its education and research institutions.
However, Canberra is not just the nation’s capital; it is also the centre of a unique city-state jurisdiction serving the people of the ACT and an economic and service centre for south-east NSW. As a result Canberra has the identity of a national, territory and regional capital.
Canberra is commonly referred to as the ‘bush capital’, and is known for its clean air, open spaces and family-friendly way of life. Canberrans also have access to world class cultural institutions and collections, and a calendar of vibrant events, including the Enlighten, Canberra, and Multicultural Festivals, and Floride.
The ACT also has a strong economy. The presence of the Commonwealth Government, embassies and tertiary institutions, regional reach, and vibrant business community, provide business and industry with unique access to research, information, key decision-makers and the chance to explore international markets.
In 2013, Canberra celebrates its centenary – 100 years since Lady Denman, wife of then Governor-General Lord Denman, announced that the name of the new Australian capital would be Canberra. The Centenary provides the opportunity to celebrate the history and heritage of one of the most enduring planned cities in the world, and at the same time highlights its lively present and bright future.