Living in Duffy: A suburb guide to Canberra’s greenest family enclave

Duffy is a Canberra suburb that epitomises the idea of the “Bush Capital”.

Not only is it a convenient drive to the City, Woden and Belconnen town centres, but its location on the western fringes of Weston Creek also offers easy access to the foothills of the Brindabellas.

Whether you’re looking to bushwalk along Narrabundah Hill or head to the Cotter Reserve for a picnic and a swim, Duffy is the perfect starting point.

If you’re a mountain bike rider, even better; the world-class facilities of Stromlo Forest Park are just a quick ride away.

When the deadly 2003 bushfires hit, more than 200 homes were lost in Duffy. It was the worst-affected suburb, but the tragic event brought the community together.

New homes were built alongside the original 1970s homes, and neighbourhoods prospered once more.

Niugini Arabica cafe has become a focal point at the shops. They roast their coffee on-site and offer a menu of pastries and cakes.

Grab a slice of spanakopita and head to the refurbished playground where the kids can clamber over nature play elements or try their hands on climbing equipment.

Justine Burke of Momentum Property says Duffy appeals to many buyers.

“It’s an area that is super family-friendly with good schools and lots of green space around, but it also has opportunities for investors and first-home buyers,” she says.

“The market is performing well, too, with good buyer activity in the area.

“Homes that are renovated and well-presented are doing particularly well, as buyers are attracted to the idea of simply moving in and enjoying their new home.”

But it’s a diverse market, Burke adds. There are apartments and townhouse developments available, along with homes on blocks larger than 2000 square metres.

“In the past 12 months, there have been sales ranging from $410,000 through to $3.5 million,” Burke says.

This multimillion-dollar sale in December 2025 through Agent Team broke the suburb record. The five-bedroom home on Settlement Drive offered a resort-style experience.

But really, with everything that’s within easy reach of Duffy, from swimming pools to nature trails, the whole suburb kind of offers that.

My Local with Justine Burke, Momentum Property

Coffee fix

Niugini Arabica offers great coffee as well as delicious pastries and cakes. It’s also conveniently positioned right next to a playground, so it’s the perfect coffee spot for families.

Hidden gem

Head up Narrabundah Hill, and within minutes, you are completely absorbed in nature. There are even some farm animals around to really make you feel like you’ve escaped the city.

Favourite street

There are so many beautiful streets in Duffy, but Eucumbene Drive is one of the best. Many homes feature stunning views back over Canberra from their elevated locations.

Homes for sale in Duffy

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Agent: La Casa Property Group, Jun Xu 0488 885 883

If you’re looking for flexibility, then this extensively renovated home on a large corner block may tick every box.

Each floor has its own open-plan kitchen and living area, outdoor space and entrance – perfect for multigenerational families or dual occupancy.

Keep active on the basketball court or hit the trail walks at nearby Narrabundah Hill Nature Reserve.

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Agent: Hive Property, Katrice Velnaar 0411 449 071

This renovated family home brings an abundance of character wrapped around a leafy, garden courtyard.

A bright red front door opens to timber floors and raked ceilings with exposed timber beams overhead. The stylish kitchen makes a statement, while a wall of windows overlooks a verandah and garden.

“This is a charming family home combining a modern twist on the classic mid-century style,” the agent says.