Practical Information

#AUSTRALIA

Australian coat of arms on top of Parliament House.

#Australia

Australia is an island, and also the sixth largest country in the world, and the smallest continent in the world.

Did you know that Australia is one of the youngest countries on earth? Despite its relative newness, it has made great strides in catching up to other developed nations, often surpassing them.

But Australia is more than just a young country. It is also home to stunning coastal beaches, making it a haven for beach lovers. Today, over 70% of Australians reside in cities or towns, with a majority of this population clustered along the eastern and southern coasts, as well as around Perth in the west.

However, Australia's breathtaking landscape extends far beyond its bustling urban centers. The famous "Outback" dominates much of the country's interior, consisting of remote and harsh lands that are too hot, dry, and barren to support a large population. To the east, expanses of grasslands stretch out, providing the perfect environment for sheep and cattle ranches.

From its rapid development to its picturesque coastlines and iconic Outback, Australia offers a captivating blend of modernity and natural beauty. What more could one ask for in a country?

Lake Hume on the Upper Murray
Lake Hume on the Upper Murray
Whitehaven Beach in Queensland
Whitehaven Beach in Queensland

Discover the majestic landscapes of Australia, with its breathtaking mountains and sprawling plateaus. In the southeast, the Blue Mountains charm visitors with their ethereal blue haze, a result of the eucalyptus trees' oil droplets. Explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, stretching over 1,900 kilometers off the northeast coast, as it thrives and evolves into the largest living structure on the planet.

While English is the official language, Australian English has a unique charm all its own, both in its spoken and written form. Once home to 200 to 300 indigenous Australian languages, only about 70 remain today, with most of them at risk of disappearing. Additionally, Australia has its own sign language, Auslan, which serves as the primary means of communication for around 6,500 deaf individuals.

Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne
The Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne was the first building in Australia to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004

Get this: school is a must in Australia from ages 6 to 15 (or 16 in South Australia and Tasmania). They really mean business about education, with an adult literacy rate around 99%. But that's not all - Australia has 38 universities thanks to government grants, and even some private ones too. They also have vocational training colleges called TAFE Institutes and apprenticeships for tradespeople. And get this, almost 60% of Aussies between 25 and 64 have some sort of higher education or vocational qualification. Education is a big deal down under!

Most of the estimated 20.4 million Australians are descended from 19th and 20th century immigrants, with the majority originating from Britain and Ireland.

Haunting of Old Melbourne Gaol
Haunting of Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks, marking the darker side of Melbourne's history.

Australian Christmas Tree - [nuytsia floribunda]
Celebrating Christmas the Aussie Way

Discover how Aussies celebrate the festive season under the summer sun!

Why Australia is Tough with Quarantine
Why Australia is Tough with Quarantine

The government imposes rigorous quarantine rules that are non-negotiable.

The Power of Protest in Australia
The Power of Protest in Australia

A reflection on the cultural importance of protest in Australia, its evolution, and why respecting the right to protest is essential to democracy.

The Colourful World of Aussie Slang
The Colourful World of Aussie Slang

Explore the rich, cheeky world of Australian slang, from “G’day” to “fair dinkum.” Let's unpack the origins, meanings & cultural charm of everyday Aussie expressions.

Australia's LGBTQIA+ Community
Australia's LGBTQIA+ Community

Australia's LGBTQIA+ community is a testament to the country's commitment to progress and equality

How Global Conflicts Ripple into Australia
How Global Conflicts Ripple into Australia

From Gaza to Ukraine, global tensions are rising. How these conflicts affect Australia's economy, security & social landscape.

How to survive a flood in Australia
How to survive a flood in Australia

With the threat of floods looming over Australia during certain times of year, it’s important to be prepared and know what to do.

The Iconic Panel Van
The Iconic Panel Van

From its humble beginnings as a practical vehicle for tradespeople to its evolution into a symbol of freedom and adventure.

Droning etiquette
Recreational Droning Etiquette

Join the ranks of Australia's droning enthusiasts and experience the thrill for yourself!



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