Learn why Canberra is the capital of Australia, how it was founded, and what features make it unique. Explore its location, population, climate, economy, and attractions on a map. Canberra is located in the southeast part of Australia, in its own special area called the Australian Capital Territory. It is bordered by New South Wales to the east and north, while Victoria is to the south. Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is located in the southeastern part of the country, in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Unlike many national capitals, Canberra was specifically chosen and designed to be the country’s capital, rather than being an existing city. Canberra is the federal capital of Australia. It occupies part of the Australian Capital Territory in southeastern Australia and is about 150 miles (240 km) southwest of Sydney. It lies astride the Molonglo River.
