Cost to Drive from Canberra to Sydney
285 km via the Hume Hwy / Federal Hwy · about 3 h 30 min driving · range spans 6–11 L/100 km at Canberra's weekly average price
Fuel: Canberra U91 avg, week ending 12 July 2026 · distance computed once from open routingThe run to Canberra follows the Hume Highway before branching onto the Federal Highway for the final stretch into the capital. It's a straightforward, well-served drive on good dual-carriageway roads and a popular hop for weekend visitors and regular commuters between the two cities. The shorter length makes it an easy single-sitting trip for most drivers, with services along the way if you need a break.
Canberra → Sydney fuel cost
Default price: Canberra average U91, week ending 12 July 2026. Fuel only — tolls, wear and rest stops not included.
The breakdown at typical consumption
| Car | L/100 km | Fuel used | One way | Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economical small car / hybrid | 6.0 | 17.1 L | $30.49 | $60.98 |
| Typical car | 8.0 | 22.8 L | $40.65 | $81.30 |
| Large SUV / ute | 11.0 | 31.4 L | $55.90 | $111.79 |
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to drive from Canberra to Sydney?
- Between $30 and $56 in fuel one way at this week's Canberra average price (178.3 c/L), depending on your car's consumption (6–11 L/100 km). A typical 8 L/100 km car uses about $40.65.
- How far is Canberra to Sydney by road?
- 285 km via the Hume Hwy / Federal Hwy, around 3 h 30 min of driving without long stops.
Related trips
- Australian Institute of Petroleum — weekly prices reportverified
- OSRM open routing (road distance, computed at build)cross-checked
Fuel cost only — tolls, food and accommodation not included. Distance is the practical sealed-road driving route; drive time excludes long breaks. Prices along remote corridors run above city averages.