Located 300 kilometres and about three and a half hours' drive southwest of Sydney, Canberra is 571 metres above sea level. While it is Australia's largest inland city, Lake Burley Griffin in the heart of the city is a popular recreational spot large enough for windsurfing, sailing, rowing and canoeing. Only a few hours drive from Canberra are several of Australia's most popular ski fields and some of the country's most beautiful and unspoilt beaches, which are popular weekend and holiday destinations for Canberrans. Canberra is particularly convenient if you have children. Accommodation is available within reasonable commuting distance of the University and is generally of a good standard.
Schools are excellent and childcare facilities are relatively plentiful.
Canberra is also one of Australia's cultural centres. Every year the city enjoys several major events and festivals of international significance. The Canberra Multicultural Festival, held every March, offers a range of free family activities as well as a hectic program of arts, theatre, dance and music from Australia and overseas. Floriade, held each spring, fills the city with beautiful displays of the season's flora. The National Gallery of Australia hosts a number of major international exhibitions each year.