Canberra A.C.T. (AustraliaN Capital Territory.)

Canberra Overview

Canberra, an aboriginal word for 'Meeting Place', was purpose built as the Nation's capital in the early 1900's.

It is located in the Australian Capital Territory or A.C.T, not in NSW as is sometimes thought; probably because the small territory is completely surrounded by New South Wales.

As the Australian's capital, the city is home to embassies, galleries, theatres, museums, fine restaurants, shopping, hotels, night clubs and of course the Australian Federal Parliament.

The National Museum of Australia is a stunning complex and stages world class exhibitions as well as a being an important Australian archive.

Canberra is often dismissed and criticised for being 'man made' and soulless but this is an unfair, superficial view.

Spend a little time in Canberra and you will quickly appreciate the thoughtful design, architecture and general usability of the place.

Canberra and The A.C.T is a fascinating place in which to stay and explore.

Burley Griffin

Canberra is built around the man made Lake Burley Griffin, named after the city 's visionary architect, and was designed to gently blend in with the natural landscape.

An example of this is Parliament House, which is partially covered with grass and gives the impression it was built into a hillside.

Parliament House dominates the centre of Canberra and has striking tree lined wide boulevards leading from it.

Many varieties of European and Australian trees have been planted en masse to produce a vivid seasonally changing coloured display.

National Museum of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is a striking addition to Canberra and has received architectural plaudits for its brave design.

The museum has a varied schedule of exhibitions and events and is well worth a visit.

Opened in March 2001, the National Museum is the first in the country devoted to the stories of Australia and Australians, exploring the key issues, events and people that have shaped and influenced our nation.

The design achieved international recognition in late 2001, winning in London the prestigious Blueprint Architecture Award for the world's Best New Public Building of the Year.

Spectacular Lake Views

The Museum includes a high-quality restaurant, Axis, which features spectacular views of Lake Burley Griffin and has become a significant destination in its own right.

One of two cafes, the Backyard Cafe, spills out onto the Garden of Australian Dreams — a remarkable garden and cultural arena created by landscape architects Room 4.1.3. The other, Cuiseum, is located in the Museum's spectacular entrance Hall.

The Museum shop offers a comprehensive collection of Australian books, museum quality arts and crafts, music and children's items. The Museum is co-located on Acton Peninsula with the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies. Through collaborations in research and exhibitions, the two institutions together create a cultural precinct of international significance.

Thank you to The National Museum Of Australia who provided photos and material for this page.