Cost to Drive from Sydney to Canberra
285 km via the Hume Hwy / Federal Hwy · about 3 h 30 min driving · range spans 6–11 L/100 km at Sydney's weekly average price
Fuel: Sydney U91 avg, week ending 30 August 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.
Sydney → Canberra fuel cost
Default price: Sydney average U91, week ending 30 August 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 | $34.63 | $69.26 |
| Typical car | 8.0 | 22.8 L | $46.17 | $92.34 |
| Large SUV / ute | 11.0 | 31.4 L | $63.48 | $126.97 |
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to drive from Sydney to Canberra?
- Between $35 and $63 in fuel one way at this week's Sydney average price (202.5 c/L), depending on your car's consumption (6–11 L/100 km). A typical 8 L/100 km car uses about $46.17.
- How far is Sydney to Canberra by road?
- 285 km via the Hume Hwy / Federal Hwy, around 3 h 30 min of driving without long stops.
Related trips
- Canberra → Sydney (reverse)
- Sydney → Melbourne
- Sydney → Brisbane
- Sydney → Newcastle
- Sydney → Gold Coast
- Sydney fuel prices
- Australian Institute of Petroleum — weekly petrol prices report, week ending 30 August 2026verified
- 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. Updated each week from AIP's Monday report; this is the week ending 30 August 2026.