86 per cent of Canberrans stay active weekly through local clubs and events

Canberra records the highest weekly sports participation rate in the country, with 86 per cent of locals playing sport or doing physical activity at least once a week.

This figure sets the city apart from other Australian centres and comes as more people seek regular exercise options close to home. The timing aligns with expanded community programs that welcome beginners alongside experienced players.

Cheering local sides from the stands

Canberrans turn out for the Canberra Raiders in rugby league, the ACT Brumbies in rugby union, UC Capitals in women's basketball, Canberra United in soccer, the Canberra Gunners in men's basketball, CBR Brave in ice hockey, Canberra Giants in netball and Canberra Cavalry in baseball. The GWS Giants also use Manuka Oval for matches, adding AFL fixtures to the calendar. International cricket, tennis tournaments and mountain bike events fill the rest of the year.

The Australian Institute of Sport draws elite athletes to the city for training, creating visible role models for anyone starting out.

Signing up and finding a team

Expansive public green spaces, ovals, parks and bike tracks give residents room to train without joining a club straight away. Local volunteers run sessions for children through to masters age groups in netball, soccer, tennis, swimming squads, triathlons, badminton and horse riding.

The city’s sporting community continues to grow through these volunteer efforts, which help develop new participants at every level. To locate a suitable group, residents can check the directory maintained by Sport ACT at sport.act.gov.au and contact clubs directly about introductory sessions or equipment needs.

Most clubs offer casual come-and-try days before full membership, and many share gear for first-timers. Checking club websites or phoning the listed contacts provides the latest details on start dates and required footwear or protective items. This approach lets newcomers match their preferred sport with available times and locations across Canberra.