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#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.

Wolfe Creek Crater, Kimberly, Western Australia
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If you are a fan of horror movies, chances are you have come across the film Wolfe Creek.

The Australian Dunny
The Australian Dunny

In Australia, the outdoor toilet is affectionately known as the dunny. It may seem strange to outsiders, but the dunny is a unique part of Australian culture, and it has a rich history.

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 Legal Status of Drugs in Australia
The Legal Status of Drugs in Australia

Many countries have legalised or decriminalised marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes. But is it legal in Australia?

The Legacy of the FJ Holden and the End of an Era
The Legacy of the FJ Holden and the End of an Era

Discover the legacy of Australia's first mass-produced car, the FJ Holden Special, a testament to a bygone era of Australian industrial prowess.

The history of same-sex marriage in Australia
The history of same-sex marriage in Australia

From early activism to the nationwide campaign that ultimately led to legalization, we explore the journey of love and equality for same-sex couples.

A new city is established
A new city is established

Cyclone Tracy tore through the city, destroying almost everything in its path. The city was able to not only recover but thrive.

Beginner's Guide to Australian Wildlife
Beginner's Guide to Australian Wildlife

Australia is a continent brimming with amazing wildlife & so many incredible creatures to discover!

Unveiling the Mysteries of Old York Hospital
Unveiling the Mysteries of Old York Hospital

Whether you're passionate about history, fascinated by the paranormal, or an admirer of architectural splendor, the Old York Hospital captivates.

Marble Bar - Hotter than a snake’s butt!<br>WA’s relentless heatwave
Marble Bar - Hotter than a snake’s butt!

Western Australia is sweltering through a record‑breaking heatwave, with the Pilbara and Marble Bar smashing temperature records as extreme heat and fire danger spread across the state.

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