Staying active and getting creative in Canberra

Looking to discover a new passion, learn a new skill or even expand your social networks in the city?

There are a range of ways you can explore the city beyond your campus and meet people along the way.

Whether you’re artistic or athletic (or both!), there are local experiences scattered across Canberra that cover all interests, hobbies and abilities. Below we’ve listed some that are ready for you to try during your next study break.

Sports

From traditional team sports to unconventional activities, Canberra is focused on fostering community spirit and participation across the region. Sports are a great way to improve your physical and mental health and connect with other like-minded people.

Want a taste of Australian sporting culture? Try these.

Canberra Netball Association

Netball is the biggest team sport for men and women played in Australia, with over 1.2 million participants in total. This ball sport is played by two teams of seven on a rectangular court with raised goal rings at each end. The aim of the game is to score goals by throwing the ball into the ring post. One thing that makes this sport so popular and accessible is that players cannot make physical contact with each other. So, if you’re someone who is seeking a non-contact sport this could be perfect for you.

Fun Fact: The Australian women’s netball team won the Netball World Cup in 2023.

AFL Canberra

Australian Football, otherwise known as AFL (Australian Football League), is an Aussie sporting favourite. This contact game is played on an oval field between two teams of 18 players. Using an oval-shaped ball the main goal of the game is to kick the ball between four goalposts to score points and win the game. However, players can only pass the ball between teammates by punching it off their palms or kicking it.

While AFL’s origins are traced back to the state of Victoria, this Aussie sport is popular with men and women across the country, including right here in Canberra.

ACT Rugby – Brumbies Club

Rugby Union is a popular contact sport in Australia and in other countries like New Zealand, South Africa, Europe and the UK. Played on a rectangular field, the aim of the game is to carry the ball over the goal line of the opposing team and force it to the ground to score points. This highly physical game is split into two 40-minute halves and played with 15 players on each team. With 65 clubs in ACT and Southern NSW, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved in rugby while studying in Canberra.

Want even more options? Here are eight other sports to try, as well as the clubs to contact:

Arts

Perhaps you prefer to exercise the creative part of your brain. Home to some of the country’s best galleries, Canberra hosts many artistic workshops, classes, and groups across the city. Having a creative outlet can not only help alleviate stress and loneliness but help improve your mood and brain function.

Browse our list of social activities from the different creative fields that you could try in your spare time.

Theatre

Lightbulb Improv

Build your confidence and develop your improvisation skills at Lightbulb Improv’s Introduction classes. Improv is a style of theatre where performers formulate stories, personas, and conversation on the spot. Lightbulb Improv’s courses are a great way to creatively collaborate with others, have fun and embrace mistakes. If you’re looking for an imaginative activity that will give you a break from study this could be the perfect creative outlet for you!

Other theatre-based activities to explore:

Dance

Canberra Dance Theatre

As Canberra’s leading dance centre, Canberra Dance Theatre (CDT) is an inclusive community of creative spirits. With a mission to improve dance education and engagement in the ACT, CDT offers a range of classes for different dance styles (e.g. ballet, contemporary, K-Pop and Hilal dance), delivering something for everyone, from beginners to experienced dancers.

Other dance-related activities to explore:

Arts and crafts

Belconnen Arts Centre

Belconnen Arts Centre is the perfect place to start your creative journey. From jewellery making to mindfulness stretching, Belco Arts hosts a range of unique classes and workshops that encourage you to experiment with new ideas and collaborate with others.

Other creative activities to explore:

In this section

Student Guide

Created by local experts, find out more about the city and how to enjoy your time studying and living in Canberra.

Cost of Living

With well-paid work and excellent community facilities, you’ll find it easier to live well here.

Living in Canberra

Our quality of life is among the best in the world. We are one of Australia’s most inclusive cities and we boast a jam-packed events calendar of arts, entertainment, night life and sport.