Canberra's Unique Tech Ecosystem: A Global Standout

Canberra is home to over 1,200 tech companies, with 75% of these businesses founded in the last five years, according to a recent report by the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government.

This surge in tech activity matters now because it signals a significant shift in the city's economy, with the sector contributing $1.3 billion to the local GDP in 2025, up from $800 million in 2020. The growth of the tech industry in Canberra is also creating new job opportunities, with the number of tech-related jobs increasing by 25% in the last two years.

In Canberra, the tech ecosystem is concentrated in areas such as Braddon, where companies like Intelledox and Instaclustr have set up headquarters, and the Australian National University's (ANU) campus in Acton, which is home to the ANU College of Engineering and Computer Science. The city is also host to the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN), a organisation that provides support and resources to local startups, and the Entry29 co-working space on University Avenue, which offers affordable office space and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs.

Key Drivers of Success

Data from the ACT Government shows that the city's tech sector is driven by a highly skilled workforce, with 62% of tech workers holding a bachelor's degree or higher, and 21% holding a PhD. The average salary for a tech worker in Canberra is $104,000 per year, compared to the national average of $94,000. Additionally, the cost of setting up a business in Canberra is relatively low, with the average cost of renting office space in the city centre at $550 per square metre per year, compared to $850 per square metre per year in Sydney.

As of June 2026, the ACT Government has committed $12 million to support the growth of the tech sector, including funding for the CBRIN and other initiatives. This investment is expected to create over 500 new jobs in the sector and attract an additional $50 million in private investment. With its unique blend of government support, world-class research institutions, and innovative startups, Canberra is well-positioned to continue its growth as a major tech hub, and its distinctive ecosystem is likely to attract even more businesses and talent to the city in the coming years.