Canberra, Australia's purpose-built capital, sits at 577 meters (1,893 ft) above sea level – making it the highest Australian capital city. Located in a highland bowl in the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra's elevated position gives it a cooler, more continental climate than most Australian cities.
Key Facts at a Glance
| City centre elevation | 577 m |
|---|---|
| Lake Burley Griffin | 570 m |
| Black Mountain | 812 m |
| Coordinates | 35.2809° S, 149.1300° E |
| Country / Region | ACT, Australia |
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| City Centre / Civic | 575–590 m |
| Parliamentary Triangle | 570–585 m |
| Belconnen (north) | 580–620 m |
| Woden / Tuggeranong (south) | 580–620 m |
| Gungahlin (north) | 580–620 m |
| Namadgi National Park | 600–1911 m |
Compare: Canberra and Nearby Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Sydney | 58 m |
| Melbourne | 31 m |
| Perth | 16 m |
| Adelaide | 43 m |
Interesting Facts About Canberra's Elevation
- Canberra was purpose-built as a compromise capital between rivals Sydney and Melbourne, chosen in 1908 and designed by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin.
- Lake Burley Griffin at 570 m was created in 1963 by damming the Molonglo River – the lake is the centrepiece of Canberra's landscape design.
- Canberra gets light snow most winters – a rarity for an Australian capital – due to its elevation and inland location.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Canberra
What is the elevation of Canberra?
Canberra sits at approximately 577 metres (1,893 feet) above sea level, making it the highest elevation of any Australian capital city.
Does Canberra get snow?
Yes, Canberra gets light snowfall most winters, typically 1–5 snowfall events per year. The nearby Snowy Mountains (3 hours drive) receive heavy snowfall.
Why is Canberra at high elevation?
Canberra is located in the foothills of the Australian Alps, in a highland basin in the Great Dividing Range. The elevated location gives it cooler temperatures and more continental climate compared to coastal Australian cities.