The correct answer is C: Canberra.
Canberra is the meticulously planned capital city of Australia. Its establishment as the national capital was the result of a compromise between Australia's two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, both of which fiercely contended for the honor. To resolve this rivalry, a new federal district was designated, and Canberra was chosen as the site for the capital in 1908. Construction officially began in 1913, and the city was formally inaugurated as the seat of government in 1927. Canberra is unique among Australian cities for its distinct design, featuring a geometric layout incorporating extensive parks and artificial lakes, a testament to its purpose-built nature as the political and administrative heart of the nation.
Let's examine why the other options are incorrect:
- A: Sydney – Sydney is the most populous city in Australia and the capital of New South Wales. It is a major global city, known for its iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, but it is not the federal capital.
- B: Melbourne – Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and Australia's second-most populous city. It is a significant cultural, economic, and sporting hub, but like Sydney, it is not the federal capital.
- D: Perth – Perth is the capital and largest city of Western Australia. Situated on the southwest coast, it is known for its beautiful beaches and relative isolation, but it does not hold the status of Australia's federal capital.