About Canberra

Canberra is located in the Australian Capital Territory, on the ancient lands of the Ngunnawal people, who have lived here for over 20,000 years. Canberra’s name is thought to mean ‘meeting place’, derived from the Aboriginal word Kamberra. European settlers arrived in the 1830s, and the area won selection by ballot for the federal capital in 1908. Since then the ‘Bush Capital’ has grown to become the proud home of the Australian story, with a growing population of around 390,000.

Canberra hosts a wide range of tourist attractions, including various national museums, galleries and Parliament House, as well as beautiful parks and walking trails. Several attractions are within walking distance of the ANU campus, including the National Museum of Australia and the Australian National Botanic Gardens. Canberra is also a fantastic base from which to explore the many treasures of the surrounding region, including historic townships, beautiful coastlines and the famous Snowy Mountains. Learn more about what to do and see during your stay in Canberra.

Visas

International visitors to Australia require a visa or an electronic travel authority (ETA) prior to arrival. It is your responsibility to ensure documentation is correct and complete before you commence your journey. Visit the Australian Immigration and Citizenship website for information about visas and ETAs.

Transportation

There are many ways to get around Canberra. Below is some useful information about Bus & Taxi transport around the ANU, the Airport and surrounding areas.

Taxi

If you are catching a taxi or Uber to the ANU Mathematical Sciences Institute, ask to be taken to Building #145, Science Road, ANU. We are located close to the Ian Ross Building and the ANU gym. A Taxi from the airport will usually cost around $40 and will take roughly 15 minutes. Pricing and time may vary depending on traffic.

Phone Canberra Elite Taxis on 13 22 27 to book a taxi.

Buses

Canberra buses are a cheap and easy way of getting around town once you're here. View bus services and fares information on the Transport Canberra website.

To travel just use your MyWay card or pay a cash fare to the driver when boarding. A single adult trip when paying cash will cost $4.80 with cheaper fares for students and children. Significant savings can be made when travelling with MyWay. View MyWay and Fares information.

Canberra Airport

The ACT government has implemented a public bus service from the CBD via the Canberra Airport via bus Route 3, seven days a week.

For more information about the buses to Canberra airport, click here.

Accommodation

Below are some accommodation options for your visit to Canberra.

Emergency Information

In case of an emergency, please evactuate to the lawns on the southern side of the building (colloquiually known as "University Avenue"). 

We have dedicated first aiders on staff, please seek them out if you require assistance. There is also a first aid room on the first floor, behind the women's bathroom, which contains basic supplies.