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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.

John Forrest National Park
John Forrest National Park
The Swan View Tunnel

Explore natural beauty intertwined with mystery and adventure in this must-visit Western Australian destination.

The Monte Cristo Homestead
The Monte Cristo Homestead

Visitors to the Monte Cristo Homestead report seeing eerie lights at the homestead or weird feelings where murders have occurred.

LGBTQIA+ Pride Across Australia
LGBTQIA+ Pride Across Australia

Explore Australia’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ pride festivals, from Perth’s PrideFEST to Sydney’s iconic Mardi Gras. Discover inclusive events, regional celebrations, and the spirit of community that makes Australia a proud and welcoming destination.

Dangerous Australian Animals & Insects
Dangerous Animals & Insects

Australia has a reputation for its dangerous animals, even if somewhat exaggerated.

Bush Fires in Australia
Bush Fires in Australia

Australians live with the risk of bush fires. Hot weather, long dry periods, and volatile natural vegetation makes most parts of Australia particularly vulnerable to fire.

Quokkas: Australia's Adorable Marsupials
Quokkas: Australia's Adorable Marsupials

Quokkas, endearingly known as the happiest animals on Earth, are small marsupials native to Australia, celebrated for their friendly demeanor and photogenic appeal. Their popularity has surged, especially on social media, due to their approachable nature and charming smiles.

How to Avoid Collisions with Wildlife While Driving in Australia
How to Avoid Collisions with Wildlife While Driving in Australia

Tips on how you can avoid collisions with wildlife while driving in Australia

Haunted - Luna Park (Sydney)
Haunted - Luna Park (Sydney)

If you're looking for a spooky adventure, then look no further than Luna Park Sydney.

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.

How Aussie Animals Forecast the Weather
How Aussie Animals Forecast the Weather

Discover how kookaburras, black cockatoos and ants forecast Aussie weather. Explore lore meets science, spot the signs and plan your day.

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