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.

Droning etiquette
Recreational Droning Etiquette

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

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!

Australia's Record Heatwaves
Australia's Record Heatwaves

Explore the impacts of Australia's record heatwaves, with insights from BOM and CSIRO predictions, and tips for climate-conscious travellers.

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.

7 External Territories
7 External Territories

Did you know that Australia has seven external territories scattered across the South Pacific and Indian Oceans?

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.



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