Moving to Canberra to Study: Your Guide to Australia’s Capital

G’day, future Canberran! So, you’ve decided to pack your bags and head to the Bush Capital for your studies. Good on ya! Canberra might not have the glitz of Sydney or the hipster vibes of Melbourne, but don’t let that fool you. This purpose-built capital is a gem hiding in plain sight, and it’s about to become your new home away from home.

Why Canberra? More Like, Why Not?

First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room. Yes, Canberra has a reputation for being a bit… well, boring. But here’s the secret: it’s anything but! This city is like a book with a plain cover that holds the most captivating story inside.

Academic Excellence

Canberra is home to some of Australia’s top universities:

  • Australian National University (ANU): Consistently ranked as Australia’s #1 university
  • University of Canberra (UC): Known for its practical, career-focused education
  • Australian Catholic University (ACU): Offers a range of courses with a focus on ethics

You’ll be studying in a city where education and research are part of the very fabric of society. It’s like being in a giant, open-air classroom!

Political Hub

As Australia’s capital, Canberra is the political heart of the nation. Imagine studying politics and being able to pop over to Parliament House for a live session. It’s like having a backstage pass to democracy!

Natural Beauty

Canberra is nicknamed the “Bush Capital” for a reason. The city is surrounded by nature reserves and mountains. Need a study break? Take a hike in Namadgi National Park or have a BBQ by Lake Burley Griffin.

Finding Your New Home

Now, let’s talk about where you’ll be resting your head after those long study sessions after moving here.

On-Campus Living

Most universities in Canberra offer on-campus accommodation. It’s a great way to dive headfirst into student life and make friends faster than you can say “Vegemite.”

Off-Campus Options

If you prefer a bit more independence, check out suburbs like:

  • Turner and O’Connor: Close to ANU and the city centre
  • Bruce: Perfect if you’re studying at UC
  • Watson: A bit further out but more affordable

You can even join Facebook groups for student housing in Canberra. They’re goldmines for finding roommates and sweet deals especially from local Canberra removalists that can help you and your roommates move into your new house in one go.

Getting Around: More Than Just Roundabouts

Canberra has a reputation for its roundabouts (seriously, there are a lot of them), but getting around is actually pretty easy.

Public Transport

The bus system, ACTION, will be your new best friend. Get yourself a MyWay card and you’re set. There’s also a light rail that connects the northern suburbs to the city centre.

Cycling

Canberra is super bike-friendly also. In fact, it’s so bike-friendly that you might start to wonder if your textbooks will fit in a bike basket.

Walking

Many areas in Canberra are very walkable. It’s a great way to explore and get some exercise between study sessions.

Weather: Four Seasons in One Day

Canberra’s weather can be a bit… let’s say, temperamental. You might experience all four seasons in one day.

  • Summers are hot and dry
  • Winters can be chilly with occasional frost and fog
  • Spring and autumn are generally pleasant but unpredictable

Pack layers and always have a jacket handy. You’ll thank me later!

Student Life: More Than Just Textbooks

Studying is important, but let’s talk about what you’ll be doing when you’re not hitting the books, revising for exams, or researching online learning platforms to supplement your studies

Nightlife

Contrary to popular belief, Canberra does have a nightlife! Check out:

  • Civic for a range of bars and clubs
  • Braddon for hipster cafes and microbreweries
  • Kingston and Manuka for a more upscale vibe

Culture Vulture

Canberra is a cultural hotspot:

  • National Museum of Australia
  • National Gallery of Australia
  • Questacon (because who says science can’t be fun?)

Many museums and galleries offer student discounts. Your student ID is like a magical key to cultural wonderland. 

Foodie Heaven

Canberra’s food scene is seriously underrated:

  • Try the famous FreakShakes at Patissez
  • Explore the international cuisine in Dickson
  • Don’t miss the Sunday markets at the Old Bus Depot

Money Matters: Balancing the Books

Let’s talk dollars and cents (or should I say, dollars and sense?).

Cost of Living

Canberra can be pricey, but it’s generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne. Budget for:

  • Rent: $150-$250 per week (shared accommodation)
  • Food: $80-$120 per week
  • Transport: $20-$40 per week

Part-Time Work

Many students work part-time to support their studies. With Parliament House and numerous government departments, there are often casual jobs available in administration and hospitality.

Tips for International Students

If you’re coming from overseas, welcome to Australia!

  • Get your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) sorted before you arrive
  • Open an Australian bank account
  • Get an Australian SIM card for your phone
  • Arrange for a long-distance mover to help you get settled, once you know where you’ll be moving to
  • Attend orientation events at your university – they’re great for making friends and getting crucial info

Tips for Interstate Students

If you’re moving from within Australia, welcome to the capital!

  • If moving your car by driving to Canberra is too far, choose an interstate car transport company that will put it on a car carrier for you where you can collect it from a depot.
  • Check out local Canberra blogs and websites for tips on where to go and what to see
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations – Canberrans are friendly and always happy to help! 

Embracing the Canberra Lifestyle

To truly become a Canberran:

  • Learn to love brunch – it’s practically a religion here
  • Embrace the cold in winter – invest in a good coat and gloves
  • Get involved in Floriade, Canberra’s annual flower festival
  • Learn to navigate roundabouts like a local

Final Words of Wisdom

Moving to Canberra to study is an adventure you won’t forget. It’s a city that grows on you, like a comfortable pair of jeans or your favourite playlist. Sure, it might not have the immediate wow factor of other Australian cities, but give it time. Before you know it, you’ll be defending Canberra’s honour to anyone who dares to call it boring.

Remember, university life is what you make of it. Get involved, say yes to new experiences, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Canberra is full of opportunities – academic, professional, and personal – if you’re willing to seek them out.

So, future Canberran, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Australia’s capital? Pack your books, your sense of humour, and maybe a beanie for those chilly mornings. Canberra’s waiting for you.