Canberra accommodation

I don't think you will get anything in Canberra on that budget, other than youth hostels.
Have you looked at Queanbeyan, there are a few motels there that are generally cheaper, as long as you don't mind a drive to Civic of around 16km?

This motel in the north of Canberra looks to be within your budget. Very quiet area. Have only seen it from the outside so don't know what the rooms are like.

There's also a Formule 1 hotel in the northern part of Canberra - but the rooms are so characterless you would probably fall into a deep depression if you had to stay there too long!

Othe possibilties under $100 are listed in the Canberra tourist site

Canberra YHA (right in Civic) is new and far from squalid - with single/double rooms at a price no more than the cheaper motels on the outskirts - maybe less. Apart from the good location, you get the added benefit of a clean kitchen and dining room for self-catering, a cafe and bar, plus lots of public spaces, and people of all ages and backgrounds to chat to. These can be really useful fringe benefits on a long haul, speaking from a lot of experience. The only downside is lack of a private bathroom, but the facilities there are very good. If you're driving, take your own small TV (with bunny ears) for your room too. Recommended option.

The quoting part can be a bit difficult as you need to cater for worst case. If the work came through, an option would be to find a short term house/apartment share which would work out much cheaper on a nightly basis.

ian's advice makes great sense.

The problem is that Canberra has an acute accomodation problem at the moment. Sort term renntals are virtually non existant and of course the serviced apratment market is taking great advantage of that.

If you are going to be here for a while, have you thought about advertising for private bed and board?

... or share accommodation, maybe around the university precincts?

I always stay at the Yowani Country Club.

I stay in the older apartments at $89 per night. The usual price is around $95 I think. The rooms have a fully equipped kitchenette, double bed, and a sofa that converts into a double bed. A breakast table, and a big bathroom. All airconditioned/heated. Very comfortable, just a little old. All within walking distance of everything else.

Yowani is on Northbourne Avenue in Lyneham (or is it Dickson?)

have a look here: Yowani Country Club,
The Accomodation

ask for Christie Muelen: Christie

I seem to remember something called the City Walk Hotel. Somewhat spartan but right in Civic and certainly inexpensive.