Women's Sport in Canberra: Teams, Leagues and How to Get Involved

Canberra has quietly become one of the best cities in Australia for women's sport, both at the elite level and in the community. The capital is home to multiple professional women's teams, a network of well-organised grassroots clubs across every major code, and a sporting culture that genuinely celebrates female athletes. Whether you want to watch, play or both, there has never been a better time to be involved in women's sport in the ACT.

At the elite end, the Canberra Capitals are the flagship. The Capitals compete in the WNBL and have one of the proudest records in the history of Australian women's basketball, claiming multiple national championships over the years. Canberra United, competing in the A-League Women football competition, brings elite women's football to the capital and has been one of the most successful clubs in the history of that competition since its founding. Attending a Capitals or Canberra United home game is an inspiring outing for supporters of all ages, and ticket prices are accessible for families.

Grassroots women's sport is thriving across every code in the ACT. Netball ACT runs extensive competitions for women and girls at all levels. Capital Football administers women's and girls' football competitions including NPL women's football through affiliated clubs. AFL Canberra has expanded its women's competitions substantially in recent years, with dedicated competitions for girls and adult women across the territory. Basketball ACT, Cricket ACT and Swimming ACT all likewise run dedicated programs for women and girls.

Many clubs across Canberra actively recruit female players and make it easy for women to join at any age or experience level. Most codes run come-and-try events, school programs and beginner-friendly competitions specifically designed to lower the barrier for women entering sport for the first time or returning after a break. The governing body websites for each code are the best starting point for finding a local club.

Women's sport in Canberra continues to grow in participation, visibility and community support. From the roar of a Capitals crowd at the AIS Arena to a Saturday morning junior soccer game in Gungahlin, the breadth and quality of opportunities for women and girls in the capital is something the whole city can take pride in.

Sources: Canberra Capitals Canberra United Capital Football

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