DOHA- Qatar Airways (QR) has resumed daily flights to Canberra (CBR) via Melbourne (MEL), Australia, restoring a key international link for the region. The airline’s return expands its Australian network across six major cities and strengthens access to global routes through Hamad International Airport (DOH).
The service connects Canberra (CBR) to more than 170 destinations via Doha, offering passengers greater travel choices and improved connectivity. The airline also brings back its signature onboard experience, including Qsuite on most flights and high-speed Starlink WiFi.
Qatar Airways Restarts Canberra Flights
Qatar Airways reintroduced its daily Boeing 777 service on December 2, 2025, rebuilding a long-valued connection for the ACT and surrounding regions. The routing through Melbourne offers consistent scheduling and a smooth transfer experience for passengers heading to international destinations.
The widebody service operates with Qsuite Business Class as the standard configuration on departure from Canberra. The cabin layout includes lie-flat beds, sliding privacy doors, and on-demand dining shaped by Australian chef Ross Lusted. The economy cabin benefits from the same in-flight service model the airline uses across its long-haul network.
Starlink WiFi is available for all passengers at no cost. Qatar Airways remains the only carrier offering high-speed satellite connectivity on flights to and from Canberra, creating a competitive advantage on the route.
Through its partnership with Virgin Australia, the airline offers convenient onward travel to major domestic cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide, and Melbourne. The connection structure reduces transit times and broadens access for both business and leisure travellers across Australia.
Senior leadership from both Qatar Airways and Canberra Airport highlighted the importance of the resumed route. The airline underlined its commitment to reconnecting communities and supporting travel for government, education, corporate, and tourism segments. Canberra Airport noted the value the route brings to more than one million residents across the ACT and southern New South Wales.
Qatar Airways continues to hold the Skytrax World’s Best Airline title for 2025, marking its ninth win. The carrier also earned recognition for best business class, best airline in the Middle East, and best business class lounge for the Al Mourjan Lounge, The Garden at Hamad International Airport.
Service Features Important to Travellers
The Qsuite product is planned as the default configuration for Canberra. Non-Qsuite aircraft are only used if operational needs require a swap.
The return of a consistent premium cabin complements the airline’s broader service model, which focuses on in-flight comfort, strong global reach, and competitive connectivity options.
Partnership Impact Across Australia
The collaboration with Virgin Australia (VA) strengthens the airline’s position within the domestic market.
Joint itineraries help streamline bookings and create reliable links across key East Coast and southern cities. This integrated network structure supports both inbound and outbound travel volume for the region.
Canberra: Best City in the World for Quality of Life
Canberra Airport keeps the city connected, but its real strength lies in the quality of life, now ranked the best in the world by Oxford Economics in 2025. The study compared 1,000 cities to understand how people actually live and thrive.
The findings show that Canberra leads globally in income equality, housing affordability, and overall well-being. The city also ranks as Australia’s top performer across four of the six core indicators measured in the index.
Why Canberra Leads the Global Rankings
Oxford Economics placed Canberra at number one because the city performs strongly across safety, income, housing, healthcare, and lifestyle. The combination of higher wages and lower relative living costs gives residents more control over their finances.
The city’s planning framework supports reliable transport, accessible green spaces, and a balance that is often missing in larger capitals.
Canberra stands out for its ability to offer urban convenience without the pressures found in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The index highlights that residents enjoy shorter commutes, strong community cohesion, and a sense of stability supported by long life expectancy rates.
Housing that Works for Residents
Housing in Canberra is more manageable than in other major Australian cities. Rent remains competitive but rarely reaches the high stress levels seen in Sydney or Melbourne.
Many students choose to share houses near the Australian National University or opt for on-campus living.
Because wages in Canberra are generally higher, residents spend a smaller share of their income on housing. This balance helps people manage study, work, and personal expenses without feeling overextended.
A Strong Safety Profile
Canberra ranks among the safest cities in Australia and globally. Walking at night, catching transport after hours, or exercising early in the morning feels safer than in most capitals. Students often mention this as a key benefit when they move to the city.
Local institutions, including ANU, maintain strong security support to ensure residents feel protected on and off campus.
Nature Built into Daily Life
Canberra integrates nature into everyday routines. Green spaces cover the city, offering bike paths, lakeside trails, mountain views, and access to protected bushland.
Students and residents often pass the Australian National Botanic Gardens on the way to class or take short hikes before starting their day. This connection to nature supports mental well-being and provides a refreshing contrast to academic or work pressures.
Transport and Liveability Aligned
The city’s design helps people move around without long delays. Public transport is reliable and roads rarely suffer from severe congestion.
Many students live close enough to walk or cycle to classes, saving time and improving daily balance. Canberra’s top ranking for life expectancy reflects the city’s clean air, strong healthcare system, and stable environment.
A Hub for Learning and Opportunity
Canberra is home to embassies, research institutes, cultural centres, and national organisations. These institutions create pathways for students interested in science, public policy, international relations, climate research, arts, and technology.
The city holds Australia’s highest employment rate, giving students access to internships, part-time roles, and graduate opportunities. ANU graduates, in particular, remain among the most employable in the country.
A City that Welcomes Diversity
Canberra’s multicultural population shapes the city’s culture and daily life. Roughly a quarter of residents were born overseas and many speak languages other than English at home.
ANU reflects this diversity with students from around the world contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment. Events like the National Multicultural Festival showcase the range of cultures that call the city home.
Final Outlook
Canberra offers accessible housing, strong job prospects, a multicultural community, and a lifestyle that supports long-term wellbeing. With global recognition now backing its strengths, the city makes a compelling case for students and residents looking for a place to grow, learn, and build a future.
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