A magnitude 4.4 earthquake struck north of Canberra on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, affecting thousands of people in what is being described as the region’s largest shake in decades. The tremor was felt as far afield as Sydney, Batemans Bay, Gosford and Albury.
Earthquake Details
Geoscience Australia reported the earthquake hit at a depth of 12 kilometres near Boorowa, approximately 100 kilometres north of the capital, at 7:10pm. More than 5,000 people reported feeling the shaking.
Geoscience Australia seismologist Hugh Glanville stated the earthquake was large for the area, but not unprecedented. He noted this was the largest tremor since a magnitude 4.8 earthquake at Browning in 1977, which caused minor damage.
Glanville explained that earthquakes of this magnitude “are around the size when you start to get minor damage,” potentially including cracked plaster or items falling from shelves. As of Wednesday evening, there have been no reports of damage.
One resident of Goulburn described the experience on Facebook, saying it “sounded like a train rumbling past my window and the whole house shook.”
According to Glanville, there have been 346 earthquakes within 100 kilometres of the latest epicentre in the past 20 years, though most have been smaller in magnitude. Residents can expect aftershocks, which are likely to be smaller.
Frequently Asked Questions
What magnitude was the earthquake?
The earthquake was reported as a magnitude 4.4 by Geoscience Australia.
Where was the earthquake’s epicentre?
The epicentre of the earthquake was near Boorowa, NSW, approximately 100 kilometres north of Canberra.
Have there been any reports of damage?
As of Wednesday evening, there have been no reports of damage.
How might this event impact residents in the coming days?
