What is the capital city of Australia?

The capital city of Australia is Canberra. It was selected as the capital in 1908 as a compromise between the two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, which were both vying for the status. Canberra was purposefully built to serve as the political and administrative center of Australia, featuring many important national institutions, such as the Parliament House and the High Court. This city was designed with a focus on space and landscaping, contributing to its identity as the center of Australian government.

Sydney and Melbourne, while being major cultural and economic hubs of Australia, are not the capital and are instead known for their vibrant city life, tourist attractions, and cultural institutions. Brisbane, located in Queensland, is another significant city but does not have the same political role as Canberra. Thus, Canberra stands out as the official capital, fulfilling its role in representing the whole nation.