Getting Around Canberra in 2026: Light Rail, Buses, Cycling and the Car

Canberra was designed around the car. Its planned garden-city layout with wide roads, separated residential areas and a dispersed job market means private transport has always dominated. But rapid transit investment, an expanding cycling network and densification around the City Centre are gradually changing the picture.

Light rail

The Canberra Metro light rail runs from Gungahlin Town Centre to the Canberra City Centre (City Bus Interchange). This 12-kilometre corridor has transformed the north-south public transport connection in the territory. Extensions are planned to Belconnen in the north-west and ultimately south to Woden and potentially Tuggeranong. When operational, these extensions will significantly broaden the rail coverage.

Buses

ACTION (ACT Internal Omnibus Network) buses serve the Canberra metropolitan area. The Rapid network provides frequent, direct services on key corridors. Local routes serve residential areas. The integration of light rail and bus at the City Bus Interchange allows transfers across the network. Off-peak and weekend frequency is lower than peak periods.

Cycling

Canberra has one of Australia's best cycling networks for a city of its size. The 35-kilometre Lake Burley Griffin foreshore path, the Shared Path network that connects most suburbs, and dedicated cycleways alongside major roads make cycling practical for both commuting and recreation. Uptake has increased significantly as the network has improved.

Driving and parking

Most Canberra trips are still by car. Parking in the City Centre is managed and paid. Outer suburban and town centre parking is generally free. The ACT government's densification agenda and the extension of the light rail will gradually shift this pattern, but the car will remain dominant for many years.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.