Canberra is Australia's largest inland city and the eighth-largest city overall, with an estimated population of over 430,000. It has been recognised as one of the world's best cities to live and visit, with a strong and stable economy, a business-friendly environment and a diverse and multicultural environment.
How the relationship began
In July 2016, Australian Capital Territory chief minister Andrew Barr signed an agreement with then Mayor of Wellington Celia Wade-Brown in Wellington to promote economic, tourism and creative industries.
Wellington City Council is focusing on transport, the environment, sustainable growth, and economic wellbeing. Business organisations have focused on trade, tourism, and business growth with Canberra.
The commitment includes programs that seek to facilitate business partnerships, tourism promotion, education and cultural exchange, research and knowledge sharing.
Highlights
Since the agreement was signed, city-to-city relations have deepened with regular visits between representatives from Canberra and Wellington. Some highlights include:
- memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Zealandia and Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary
- memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Canberra Business Chamber
- memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Screen Wellington and Screen Canberra
- memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Wellington Zoo and National Zoo & Aquarium on animal conservation and environmental security
- indigenous artist exchange
- a tripartite cooperation between National Arboretum Canberra, Wellington Botanic Gardens and Singapore Botanic Gardens.