Unlocking minds in mathematics education
Venue Information
This year’s conference will take place across two iconic venues, each offering a unique experience.
Official Conference Opening at the Shine Dome
Our conference kicks off on Sunday evening at the Australian Academy of Science’s Shine Dome. A true Canberra landmark since 1959, the Shine Dome is not only an architectural marvel but also the first building in the city to be added to the National Heritage List. Join us for the official opening ceremony, followed by the inaugural plenary lecture and a drinks reception.
University of Canberra – Conference Headquarters
From Monday to Thursday, the University of Canberra will host the conference. Nestled in the tranquil suburb of Bruce, the UC campus offers expansive green spaces, tall trees, and abundant wildlife, creating the perfect backdrop for a productive event. Just 2.5 km from Belconnen’s Town Centre and 8.7 km from the heart of Canberra, UC provides easy access to shopping, dining, cafes, events, and markets, all just a stone’s throw away.
Conference Dinner - National Museum of Australia
The MERGA conference dinner will be held in the Gandel Atrium at the National Museum of Australia. Join us and enjoy the soaring ceilings and expansive windows overlooking Lake Burley Griffin, as we sit among objects from the Museum’s collection including a Muttaburrasaurus skeleton and an iconic 1955 FJ Holden. |
Accommodation
Canberra offers a range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets, with some wonderful hotel offers available for MERGA47 attendees.
There is no accommodation in easy walking distance to the University of Canberra. There are regular buses to the University of Canberra, with taxi and ride share services readily available. Paid parking options are also available on campus at the university.
Experience laid-back luxury at A by Adina Canberra. An award-winning sustainably-designed building close to Canberra’s new foodie and retail hub. Use booking code MERGACONF072025 for rooms offering 10% discount.
Situated in Canberra’s north-west, Abode Belconnen offers stylishly appointed self-contained, apartment style rooms to accommodate for all needs, including families or corporate groups, pet friendly rooms (charges apply), and studios designed specifically for people who are mobility impaired. Use booking code MERGA to receive a 12% discount.
Located just one block from the CBD, Mantra on Northbourne is a short stroll from famous attractions such as Parliament House, the War Memorial and the National Gallery, and only a few metres from the city’s thriving shopping precinct, hip bars and cool cafes. Use booking code MERGACONF25 for a 10% discount.
The Mercure Canberra offers heritage-style accommodation with modern comforts in the heart of Canberra, for a relaxed and memorable stay. To receive a discounted stay email stay@mercurecanberra.com.au and quote Block ID:848708.
This luxury offering from the Marriott hotel group is situated in the up-and-coming Braddon neighbourhood. Boasting exceptional service and unique architectural design. 10% discount offered to MERGA delegates.
Novotel Canberra is the premium CBD hotel boasting an unrivaled location in the heart of the city. Perfectly positioned within easy reach of many of Canberra’s best restaurants, bars and shops. Book via the link above for a 10% discount.
Peppers Gallery Hotel, like all Peppers hotels, offers individual charm and professional hotel service. A sculpture garden spills into the foyer of a historic building originally built to accommodate vast number of VIP guests arriving to Canberra for the grand opening of the first Parliament house. Use booking code MERGACONF25 for a 10% discount to conference delegates.
Alternative options
For further options check out sites such as Booking.com, Wotif, Expedia and TripAdvisor for more details. If accommodation is showing as sold out on those sites you may still be able to book direct (which may also be cheaper).
Airbnb may be an option for solo travellers and groups willing to share. Motels may also provide cost-effective accommodation.
Travel
There is no accommodation in easy walking distance to University of Canberra. There are regular buses to the university with bus timetables are available on the Transport Canberra website. Taxis and ride share services are readily available in Canberra. Paid parking options are also available on campus at the university.
Visas
New Zealand Visitors – New Zealand passport holders can apply for a Special Category Visa (subclass 444) on arrival into Australia.
International Visitors – If you are travelling to the conference from further abroad (neither an Australian nor New Zealand passport) then you will need to apply for either an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (subclass 601), an eVisitor (subclass 651) or a Business Visitor Visa (subclass 600); see the IMMI Rules for Entering Australia Including Visa Types and the associated explore the visa options button (select ‘Attending a Conference or Expo’ as an unpaid delegate, unless you are staying longer for other reasons). The ETA can be applied for using the App, is free, and takes a few days to process; the eVisitor is free and takes 24 hours to process; and the Business Visitor Visa costs $150 AUD and may take a month to process. Those outside the countries eligible for the ETA and eVisitor may need to apply for the Business Visitor Visa.