Australia was once only occupied by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who spoke hundreds of different languages and dialects. Their cultures and traditions varied widely, and they believed that humans, animals, trees, and rocks were all interconnected and that the land had a deep, spiritual significance. Many in Asia had trading relationships with the indigenous inhabitants of Australia for centuries, but it wasn’t until Captain James Cook claimed the continent for the British Crown that the country began to evolve into what it is today.
Australia Exploring is the location for everything you need to know about the Commonwealth of Australia, including advice on Australian travel and accommodations. When you are travelling in Australia, it is important to note that Australia is a constitutional monarchy comprised of six states and several territories. Each state and major territory has its own parliament responsible for voting on any laws that are introduced, while the executive branch enacts the laws and the judiciary enforces them.
Australia’s population is diverse, and although the majority of Australians are of British or Irish ancestry, Australia is also home to many Asians and Pacific Islanders. In fact, nearly 25 per cent of the population consists of recent immigrants, making Australia one of the most multicultural countries in the world. You’ll feel comfortable when travelling in Australia, no matter what country you call home.
The climate of Australia is equally diverse. Although much of the interior of the country is fairly dry, the environment is varied, with wetlands, savannas, tropical rain forests, mountain ranges, and thousands of kilometres of beaches along the coastline. The wildlife is largely endemic, with marsupials, monotremes, birds, and hundreds of reptile and fish species entirely unique to the continent.
Australia’s economy is strong, and the country is home to some of the most liveable cities in the world, including Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Melbourne. The Australian dollar, or AUD, is based on the decimal system and is available in coins ranging from one cent to two dollars. Dollars are available in denominations ranging from five dollars to 100 dollars.
