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.

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.

Living with Kangaroos
Living with Kangaroos

Kangaroos are one of the most iconic animals in Australia, and they are not restricted to rural areas or the outback.

The Celebrations of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and Sydney WorldPride
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras & Sydney WorldPride

This year Sydney hosts two of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world, the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras & Sydney WorldPride.

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.

The Australia Act 1986: A Quiet Revolution
The Australia Act 1986: A Quiet Revolution

A vivid explainer of the Australia Act 1986. How a quiet legal shift severed Britain's final ties and affirmed Australia's full constitutional independence. Discover the Act that completed the nation's journey to sovereignty.

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.

Australia Day / Invasion Day & the Date Debate
Australia Day / Invasion Day & the Date Debate

Explore the complex debate around Australia Day, Invasion Day & the ongoing discussion about the date's significance, inclusivity, and future in Australian society.

Birak Season: First Summer on Noongar Country
Birak Season:
First Summer on Noongar Country

Birak, the Noongar first summer season in south-west WA, brings mosaic burning, sea breezes, coastal abundance and cultural renewal across Perth & the South West.

The Larrimah Hotel
Missing: Paddy Moriarty

In a remote outback of Australia, 10 residents share a unique bond and search for the answers to the mystery of missing Paddy Moriarty.

25 Facts About Australia
25 Facts About Australia

How much do you know about Australia? It's a place with a colourful history, present and future. Here are 25 interesting facts you may not have known.

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