Transit Desk

Crossing brief

How far is it from Australia to China?

Distance
It is about 9,008 km (5,597 mi) from Australia to China as the crow flies — roughly 12 h 31 min by non-stop flight.

Canberra to Beijing

Australia China
Distance
9,008 km
In miles
5,597 mi
Flight time
12 h 31 min
Time change
2 h west

Distance is the great-circle distance between the capitals (Canberra and Beijing); flight time is an estimate for a non-stop route at cruising speed. Real schedules vary with routing, winds and connections.

This is a long-haul route: among the 59 countries we cover, China is the #12 closest to Australia, making it one of the closer destinations.

Crossing from Australia to China

The practical differences you will notice on this specific trip.

Time on arrivalYou fly west and gain 2 h. On arrival your body clock reads 2 h ahead of local time — westward trips are usually easier to shake off.
PowerPack a plug adapter — China uses Type A/C sockets your Australia plugs do not fit. Voltage changes from 230V to 220V, so check single-voltage devices.
Money1 AUD = 4.677 CNY — exchange Australian Dollar for Chinese Yuan before or on arrival.

Common questions

How far is Australia from China?

About 9,008 km (5,597 miles) in a straight line between the two capitals.

How long is the flight from Australia to China?

A non-stop flight takes roughly 12 h 31 min, though actual times depend on the exact airports and routing.

Will I be jet-lagged flying to China?

You fly west and gain 2 h. On arrival your body clock reads 2 h ahead of local time — westward trips are usually easier to shake off.

Updated July 2, 2026