Which is the capital of Australia?
VerifiedAnswer: Canberra
Explanation:
Many students are surprised to learn that Canberra is Australia's capital city, not Sydney or Melbourne as commonly assumed. This planned city was specifically created to serve as the nation's capital and has been fulfilling this role since 1913.
The story behind Canberra's selection is quite fascinating. When Australia became a federation in 1901, there was intense rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne over which city should become the capital. Both cities had strong claims - Sydney was the largest and most economically important, while Melbourne was the cultural and political center at the time. To resolve this dispute, the Australian government decided to create an entirely new city that would serve as a compromise solution.
The location chosen for Canberra was in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), positioned between Sydney and Melbourne. This strategic placement satisfied both rival cities while creating a neutral ground for the national government. The name "Canberra" comes from the local Aboriginal word "Kamberra," which means "meeting place" - quite fitting for a capital city!
What makes Canberra unique is that it was designed from scratch by American architect Walter Burley Griffin, whose plan won an international design competition. The city features a distinctive layout with important buildings positioned around Lake Burley Griffin, creating a beautiful and functional urban environment.
Today, Canberra houses all the important institutions of Australian government, including Parliament House, the High Court of Australia, and various government departments. The city is also home to prestigious institutions like the Australian National University and serves as the diplomatic center with numerous embassies and high commissions from around the world.
So remember, while Sydney and Melbourne might be more famous internationally, Canberra proudly stands as Australia's capital city - a specially designed seat of government that represents the unity and democracy of the Australian nation.
