Australian National University (ANU)

About ANU

The Australian National University sits in the heart of Canberra and plays a defining role in the city’s academic, cultural, and research landscape. Established by the Australian Parliament in 1946, the ANU has grown into one of the world’s leading universities, known for pioneering research, influential policy contributions, and strong ties to national institutions.

The Acton campus blends natural bushland with lakeside walking paths, heritage-listed buildings, and award-winning contemporary architecture. Locally referred to as “the ANU”, it’s only a short stroll to the city centre. Along the way, you may pass kangaroos and native birds by Sullivans Creek, or stop at Kambri Precinct for dining, galleries, public art, and the lively campus atmosphere. On the western side of the university is CSIRO, the Australian Botanical Gardens & Black Mountain.

The university’s close connection to the Australian Government also means it attracts world-class experts, visiting academics, and international delegations year-round. For visitors, the campus is both a learning environment and a cultural hub, offering a genuine look at Canberra’s role as the nation’s centre of ideas, innovation, and public policy.

ANU Events

The ANU hosts a diverse year-round events calendar that attracts students, scholars, families, and culture-seekers from across Australia and abroad. The Kambri Precinct regularly features exhibitions, film screenings, live music, author talks, and festivals that highlight Canberra’s creative scene. Academic faculties run public lectures, networking evenings, panel events, seminars, and specialist conferences that bring together industry leaders and internationally recognised researchers.

One of the most significant periods on the ANU calendar is graduation week, when families converge on Llewellyn Hall and campus lawns to celebrate. Annual open days, school outreach programs and community festivals also draw thousands of visitors who come to explore laboratories, heritage collections, and hands-on demonstrations rarely accessible elsewhere. With so many events woven into the annual calendar, the ANU is one of Australia’s most intellectually active and culturally engaged destinations.

Visitor Accommodation

For guests attending ANU events or exploring the surrounding attractions, Novotel Canberra offers a convenient and comfortable base only a 5 minute walk from campus. Our central location on Northbourne Avenue places you moments from Kambri, the city centre, and the light rail. Enjoy convenient access to both the ANU and Canberra’s best dining precincts.

As a 4-star hotel, Novotel offers a relaxing retreat with spacious rooms, a large work desk, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Guests also enjoy an indoor heated pool, spa, and sauna, ideal for relaxing at the end of the day. Perfect for families visiting for graduation, academics travelling for conferences, or visitors enjoying the university’s cultural program.

Guests can start the morning with our popular breakfast buffet before heading out to ANU or the surrounding national institutions, many of which are located within a few minutes’ walk.

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