Downer
ACT 2602 • Australian Capital Territory
About Downer
Downer is an established inner-north suburb of Canberra, located just 5 kilometres north of the CBD in the district of North Canberra. With a population of around 4,300, it was gazetted in 1960 and named after Sir John Downer, a former Premier of South Australia and founding Australian Senator. The suburb is bounded by Northbourne Avenue, Antill Street, and Philip Avenue. With a median age of 35 and high household incomes, it attracts a mix of young professionals, academics, and families.
Downer offers a leafy, village-like atmosphere with a small local shopping centre known as the Downer shops, featuring cafes and essential services. The suburb is well-positioned near Dickson's dining precinct and the University of Canberra. Federated Crescent Park and surrounding green spaces provide recreation. The culturally diverse community — with significant Chinese, Indian, and Vietnamese heritage — adds vibrancy to the neighbourhood. Downer is popular with public servants, university students, and professionals who appreciate its central location and quiet residential streets.
Downer falls under postcode 2602 and is governed by Unincorporated Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Kurrajong electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- R2 — City Interchange via Dickson 15 mins
- 39 — City via Watson and Downer 20 mins
- 56 — Belconnen via Lyneham 25 mins
Commute to Canberra City (Civic)
🛣️ Light rail on Northbourne Avenue provides fast, frequent service to the city centre
Local shops within the suburb, light rail and buses easily accessible, good cycling infrastructure
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Majura Avenue
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Cowper Street
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Phillip Avenue
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Davenport Street
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114 Maitland Street
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136 Brigalow Street
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Goodwin Street
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Brigalow Street
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48 Dyandra Street
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Macpherson Street
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Macarthur Avenue
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Knox Street
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Fleming Street
Housing 2021 Census
143 state housing + 17 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 130
- 2. China 114
- 3. India 82
- 4. Vietnam 66
- 5. New Zealand 47
- 6. United States 40
- 7. Sri Lanka 36
- 8. Nepal 33
- 9. Philippines 29
- 10. Indonesia 28
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)