Know all about students’ education and lifestyle at Canberra, Australia

For students seeking big city perks along with the ease of small-town living, Canberra ticks all the boxes. Australia’s capital city is a bustling place with all the benefits of both worlds. It may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of Australia, but it is a city that will certainly tug at the heartstrings the most. For a small city that is mostly overlooked, Canberra packs a big punch. From world-famous museums and galleries that showcase stunning national treasures to world-class dining and entertainment, the city has plenty to offer.

Grab a slice of the big city life!

Students from metropolitan cities who want to move to Canberra but are wary of a slow-paced life need not worry. The cosmopolitan lifestyle is alive and thriving in Canberra. Its suburbs Braddon, New Acton, Kingston, Manuka, and Civic are dotted with international eateries and award-winning cafes, serving up everything from a casual breakfast to the best fine dining experiences. All-day dining options are plenty with cuisines from all over the world. The city even hosts a wine festival. Those wanting to party the night out with friends can pick from a variety of nightlife venues. The inner suburbs have beer gardens, cocktail bars, pubs, and clubs. The Basement in Belconnen and Smith’s Alternative in Civic has live music. One can find Australia’s best artists and international acts at music festivals like Spilt Milk, Groovin the Moo, and the University of Canberra’s Stonefest.

For shopaholics, Canberra boasts a thriving shopping scene with niche boutiques selling local creations to large department stores and malls. Shoppers can also visit local markets, including the Old Bus Depot Markets held each Sunday in Kingston, and several farmers' markets held at various locations and times across Canberra every weekend.

Take it easy, soak in the sun

For those wanting to spend more time in the great outdoors, the city does not disappoint. In addition to the green spaces, lakes, and parks within the city itself, spectacular natural gorges, rivers and the stunning snow-capped Brindabella mountains are within easy reach. Canberra’s planners have ensured that the natural world weaves through the city itself. The city, suburbs and surrounding National Parks offer a variety of outdoor recreation activities. The pleasant weather is great for walking, running, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and camping. With bush walks within easy walking distance, one can grab a quick lunch hour in nature with enough time for a shower before getting back at the work desk for the afternoon. One can also choose to relax on the spectacular beaches along the New South Wales South Coast. For those up for an adventure, the ski fields in the Snowy Mountains are great for a day’s trip.

There’s plenty to celebrate
Students from India are accustomed to festivals. India celebrates over 50 festivals in a year in various states across the country. Indian students would be happy to note that Canberra is a city of festivals too. Enlighten Canberra is an outdoor annual art and cultural festival featuring illuminating light installations and projections. One can view the city from above at the Canberra Balloon Spectacular and watch fireworks on the edge of the lake at Skyfire while enjoying performances from local and interstate musicians. In Spring, Canberra’s iconic Floriade festival attracts half a million visitors annually to watch millions of flower bulbs creating a spectacular show of colour across Commonwealth Park. The Canberra Comedy Festival in March, and Summernats – Australia’s largest (and loudest) car festival held in January each year, cannot be missed. For sports lovers, there is plenty of action too. Cricket fans can catch up with international and Big-League cricket tournaments at Manuka Oval.

Australia’s most liveable city is known for education, creativity, and progressive thinking

Canberra has earned the title of Australia’s most liveable city and it is easy to see why. Known for its inclusive community and diversity, Canberra is a standout success as a multicultural city. It has a reputation for being friendly, welcoming, and accepting of other cultures. Canberra’s low crime rate fosters a permanent feeling of safety and security. Students would be excited to know that Canberra also has the highest employment rate, highest average salary, and some of the best infrastructure and services in the country. With a culture that encourages education, creativity, and progressive thinking, it has probably the greatest concentration of knowledge professionals among any Australian city.

Canberra is one of the most affordable student cities in Australia with reasonably priced accommodations and low cost of living compared to most other Australian cities. It can make a great forever home for students who want to live a modest lifestyle while enjoying the best of both worlds.

Darshan Shelat is pursuing Masters in IT and Systems, University of Canberra

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by University of Canberra and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.