The ultimate guide to free meditation classes in canberra
Meditation can offer a simple, low-pressure way to support mental wellbeing, especially when life feels busy or overwhelming. Taking even a few minutes to pause, breathe and settle the mind can help reduce stress, improve focus and create a greater sense of calm. For many people, it can also be a useful tool for building self-awareness and making space to respond rather than react.
Below you'll find our ultimate guide to free meditation classes in canberra.
1. Canberra Meditation (Sri Chinmoy)
Canberra Meditation has been teaching free meditation in Canberra for many years. Inspired by the teachings of Sri Chinmoy, their beginner-friendly courses introduce breathing exercises, concentration, heart-centred meditation, mantras, visualisation and meditation through music. Classes are relaxed, welcoming and suitable for anyone curious about meditation.
Locations
- Griffin Centre (Civic)
- Belconnen Library
- Woden Library
- Tuggeranong Library
- Gungahlin Library
Meditation Style: Breath awareness, Heart meditation, Mantras, Music meditation, Guided meditation
2. Sahaja Yoga – Meditate Canberra
Sahaja Yoga teaches a unique style of meditation known as "Thoughtless Awareness". Classes are free, beginner-friendly and designed to help reduce stress while improving mental clarity and emotional wellbeing.
Regular Classes
- Pearce Community Centre
Tuesday – 6:45 pm to 7:45 pm - Erindale Neighbourhood Centre (Wanniassa)
Wednesday – 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Denman Village Community Centre
Thursday – 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm - Belconnen
Check website for latest venue and class times.
Meditation Style: Sahaja Yoga, Thoughtless Awareness, Guided Meditation
3. Brahma Kumaris
Brahma Kumaris teaches Raja Yoga meditation, an open-eyed meditation practice focusing on inner peace, positive thinking and emotional resilience. All introductory courses are free.
Address:
38 Wisdom Street, Hughes ACT
Regular Sessions
- Monday–Friday: 7:00 pm
- Saturday & Sunday: 6:30 pm
Meditation Style: Raja Yoga, Positive Thinking, Self-awareness
4. Tibetan Buddhist Society of Canberra
The Tibetan Buddhist Society offers free introductory meditation classes based on traditional Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Sessions focus on mindfulness, compassion and calming the mind.
Location
Sakya Temple of Peace
27 Jenke Circuit, Kambah
Meditation Style: Tibetan Buddhist Meditation, Mindfulness, Compassion Meditation
5. Buddhist Society of ACT
The Buddhist Society of ACT offers meditation sessions based on the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. Classes include Vipassanā (Insight Meditation) and Mettā (Loving Kindness).
Location
245 Goyder Street
Narrabundah ACT
Meditation Style: Vipassanā, Mettā, Mindfulness
- Address: 245 Goyder Street, Narrabundah, ACT 2604
- Phone: (02) 6239 7194
- Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
6. Canberra Insight Meditation Group
This volunteer-run meditation group practises Insight (Vipassanā) Meditation in a relaxed community environment. Beginners are always welcome and attendance is free, with optional donations.
Meditation Style: Vipassanā, Silent Sitting, Mindfulness
Weekly Meditation
Each Sunday 6.15pm
Sakyamuni Buddhist Centre
32 Archibald Street Lyneham
canberrainsightmeditationgroup.org
Meditation at Canberra Libraries
Canberra Meditation regularly conducts free beginner courses at ACT Libraries throughout the year.
- Belconnen Library
- Tuggeranong Library
- Woden Library
- Gungahlin Library
- Griffin Centre (Civic)
Courses typically run over several evenings or weekend workshops and cover breathing techniques, relaxation, concentration and guided meditation.
Community Centres Worth Checking
Although these venues don't currently advertise regular free meditation classes, they frequently host wellbeing, mindfulness, yoga and community health programs throughout the year.
- Belconnen Community Centre
- Belconnen Arts Centre
- Capital Region Community Services
- Communities at Work
- Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Quick Comparison
| Organisation | Meditation Style | Free |
|---|---|---|
| Canberra Meditation | Breathwork, Heart Meditation, Music Meditation | ✔ |
| Sahaja Yoga | Thoughtless Awareness | ✔ |
| Brahma Kumaris | Raja Yoga | ✔ |
| Tibetan Buddhist Society | Tibetan Buddhist Meditation | ✔ |
| Buddhist Society of ACT | Vipassanā & Mettā | ✔ (Donation Welcome) |
| Canberra Insight Meditation Group | Insight Meditation | ✔ (Donation Welcome) |
Getting Started
If you're completely new to meditation, don't worry. Most of Canberra's free classes are specifically designed for beginners. Wear comfortable clothing, arrive a few minutes early and simply bring an open mind. There's no need to sit cross-legged unless you want to—most venues also provide chairs.
Whether you're seeking stress relief, improved focus, greater emotional wellbeing or simply a little quiet time each week, Canberra's meditation community offers plenty of welcoming spaces to begin your journey.
