Australia is truly a unique and wonderful place. Australia is renowned for its friendly locals and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re interacting with locals in a city or exploring the Outback, you’re sure to have a positive experience. Australians are known for their sense of humour, so don’t be afraid to crack a few jokes while you’re there!
If you want to learn more about this fascinating country, we have a whole series of fascinating and interesting facts about Australia for kids. Maybe it will even inspire you to pay a visit some time.
Interesting Facts About Australia
1. Australia is a vast country, spanning over 3.3 million square miles across the southern hemisphere.
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2. With a population of around 24 million people, Australia is one of the least densely populated countries in the world.
3. The capital city of Australia is Canberra, which was officially named as such in 1913. Other major cities include Sydney and Melbourne, both of which are known for their vibrant arts and culture scenes.
4. Australia’s history stretches back tens of thousands of years to the time when indigenous groups first settled on its shores. Today, many native Australian traditions can still be found throughout the country, including in its art, music, dance and cuisine.
5. One popular aspect of Australian culture is its love of sport. Some of the most popular sports Down Under include cricket, rugby, AFL (Australian rules football) and surfing.
6. The Australian landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from lush rainforests to parched desert regions. The country is also home to some unique wildlife, such as kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and dingoes.
7. The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. This vast coral reef system is home to an incredible array of marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
8. Australia is sometimes referred to as “the Land Down Under” due to its position in the southern hemisphere. Additionally, it is sometimes called “Oz” after the magical land featured in L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s book series, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
9. The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. This world-famous building, located on Sydney Harbour, is home to a number of performing arts companies and hosts more than 1,500 events each year.
10. Australian movie director George Miller is responsible for creating the popular Mad Max franchise, which began with the release of the original film in 1979. Miller has also directed a number of other successful films, including Babe (1995) and Happy Feet (2006).
11. Crocodile Dundee (1986) is one of the most successful Australian films of all time. The movie, which tells the story of an Outback bushman who is brought to the city, grossed more than $328 million at the worldwide box office.
12. Australia is home to a number of unique animals, including kangaroos, koalas, dingoes and echidnas. These animals are often found in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries around the country.
13. The dingo is a type of wild dog that is native to Australia. These dogs are often considered to be a pest by farmers as they can prey on livestock such as sheep and cattle.
14. Australia is also home to a huge variety of birds, many of which can only be found in this corner of the world. Some popular Aussie bird species include emus, kookaburras and cockatoos.
15. The Great Ocean Road is an iconic Australian landmark that was built by returning soldiers following World War I. This scenic road stretches along Australia’s southeastern coast for more than 120 miles, offering stunning views and plenty of opportunities for adventure activities like hiking, whale watching and surfing.
16. Australia has a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens in Melbourne, the Sydney Opera House and Kakadu National Park in Northern Territory. These sites are protected due to their importance to the natural and cultural heritage of humanity.
17. Many iconic movies have been filmed in Australia, including The Man From Snowy River (1982), Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) and Crocodile Dundee (1986). Additionally, many popular TV shows are filmed Down Under, including Home and Away and Doctor Who.
18. Australia is one of the largest countries in the world, with a total area of nearly 3 million square miles. Despite its large size, however, it has a relatively small population of just over 24 million people.
19. Australia is made up of six states and three territories, which include New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia on the mainland as well as the Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and the island state of Tasmania.
20. Canberra is the capital city of Australia, located in the southeastern part of the country between Sydney and Melbourne. This planned city was purpose-built to serve as the capital following a long-running debate about whether Sydney or Melbourne should hold this title.
21. Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a population of more than 4 million people. This cosmopolitan city is known for its harbourfront Opera House, world-famous Bondi Beach and iconic Harbour Bridge.
22. Melbourne is the second largest city in Australia and is often referred to as the “cultural capital” of the country. This vibrant metropolis is home to a number of world-renowned museums and art galleries, as well as a lively music and nightlife scene.
23. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and is the third largest city in Australia. This sunny metropolis is home to a number of parks and green spaces, as well as the world’s largest collection of sub-tropical plants.
24. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and is the fourth most populous city in the country. This modern city is known for its relaxed lifestyle and beautiful beaches, which make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
25. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and is the fifth largest city in Australia. This picturesque city is known for its Victorian architecture, expansive parks and leafy green boulevards.
More Fascinating Facts & Information About Australia, The Land Down Under
26. Tasmania is an island state located southeast of the Australian mainland. This scenic destination is renowned for its wild coastline, pristine forests and rugged mountains.
27. The Northern Territory is a federal territory located in the central northern part of Australia. This vast region is home to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), as well as the world’s largest crocodile farm.
28. The Australian Capital Territory is a federal territory located in southeastern Australia, enclosing the country’s capital city of Canberra. This small but mighty territory is home to a number of national landmarks and institutions, including Parliament House and the National Museum of Australia.
29. Christmas Island is an Australian territory located in the Indian Ocean, just south of Indonesia. This remote island is home to one of the world’s most unusual natural attractions – the annual migration of millions of red crabs.
30. The Great Barrier Reef is a network of coral reefs located off the northeastern coast of Australia. This iconic reef system is known for its diverse marine life and vibrant colors, and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
31. Australia has some of the world’s best surfing beaches, including Bondi Beach in Sydney and Bells Beach near Melbourne. Additionally, this country boasts some of the top windsurfing destinations as well, such as J-Bay in South Africa that attracts surfers from all over the globe.
32. Australia is home to a number of unique animals, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and wombats. These furry creatures can all be found in the wild across the country, and they are also popular attractions at many of the zoos and wildlife parks located throughout Australia.
33. The Australian Outback is a vast and remote region that covers much of the country’s interior. This arid landscape is home to a number of iconic landmarks, such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the Simpson Desert.
34. Australia has a long and rich Indigenous history dating back thousands of years. There are an estimated 700 different Aboriginal languages spoken across the country, and Indigenous people make up around 2% of the total population.
35. Australia is a constitutional monarchy, and Queen Elizabeth II is the current head of state. However, the country is largely governed by its Prime Minister and Parliament, which are both located in Canberra, the capital city.
36. The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency of the country. One Australian dollar is currently worth around 0.72 US dollars (USD).
37. Australia’s national day is celebrated on January 26th each year and is known as Australia Day. This public holiday commemorates the arrival of the first British settlers in Australia in 1788.
38. Australians are known for their love of sport, and some of the most popular sports played in the country include cricket, Australian rules football, rugby union and rugby league.
39. The Australian national rugby union team, known as the Wallabies, is one of the most successful teams in the world and has won two World Cups (in 1991 and 1999).
40. Australia is a world-renowned wine region, and some of the most popular varieties produced in the country include shiraz, chardonnay and semillon. Many of the best wineries are located in South Australia, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale regions.
41. Tasmania is home to some of the world’s best whisky distilleries, such as Lark Distillery and Sullivans Cove. Whisky production in Tasmania dates back to the early 1800s, and today there are a number of different styles being produced on the island.
42. Australia is home to a number of large cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. These urban areas are all located along the coast, and they are each known for their unique culture and attractions.
43. Sydney is the largest city in Australia, with a population of over 4 million people. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, as well as a number of beaches, parks and museums.
44. Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria state and is known for its Victorian architecture, cafes and shopping precincts. The city also boasts a lively arts scene, and it is home to a number of popular festivals throughout the year.
45. Perth is located on the edge of Australia’s desert region, and it boasts a spectacular setting on the Swan River. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Cottesloe Beach and Scarborough Beach, as well as its lively nightlife scene.
46. Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland state and is famous for its sub-tropical climate and vibrant arts scene. Additionally, the city hosts a number of large multicultural events throughout the year, including Chinese New Year celebrations and Greek cultural festivals.
47. Adelaide is located in South Australia and sits near some of Australia’s top wine regions, such as McLaren Vale and the Barossa Valley. The city is also popular for its festivals and exciting live music scene, including the annual OzAsia Festival and WOMADelaide festival.
48. Australia is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from strange creatures such as the kangaroo, koala and dingo, to iconic marine animals such as whales, sharks and sea lions. In fact, there are more than 400 species of mammals living in Australia’s unique ecosystems.
49. Australia has one of the world’s highest rates of skin cancer, with two out of three Aussies expected to develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. This is largely thanks to Australia’s hot climate and year-round sunshine: sunscreen is an absolute necessity when traveling to Australia!
50. Kangaroos, koalas and wallabies are all marsupials – animals that give birth to their young when they are very small in size. In fact, kangaroo babies are only the size of a jelly bean when they are born!
51. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders and is home to thousands of species of marine life, including whales, sharks, sea turtles and seahorses.
52. One of Australia’s largest cities, Sydney, sits on the coast with a gorgeous view overlooking Port Jackson (also known as Sydney Harbour). This stunning location makes it an ideal spot for sailing and other water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling and paddle boarding.
53. The Australian outback is one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Australia, and its vast expanses of dry desert make it home to unique creatures such as dingoes, emus and kangaroos. It’s an unforgettable destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike!
54. Australia has a reputation for being a very sporty country, with outdoor activities ranging from surfing and swimming to horseback riding and cricket being popular among locals. Some of the biggest sports events held annually in Australia include the Australian Open tennis tournament, the AFL Grand Final football game, and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
55. For thousands of years, Indigenous Australians have lived in harmony with the land, and their ancient cultures and traditions are an important part of Australia’s heritage. Today, there are around 700 Indigenous Australian communities spread across the country, each with their own unique languages and customs.
56. One of Australia’s most popular tourist attractions is Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), a huge sandstone rock formation located in the Northern Territory. Uluru is sacred to the local Indigenous people and it is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Australia.
57. Australia is a very diverse country, with people from all over the world coming to live and work here. In fact, more than 25% of Australians were born overseas! This multiculturalism is reflected in Australia’s food, with cuisine from all corners of the globe being enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
58. The dingo is a wild dog that is found in Australia and parts of Asia. They are known for their distinctive howl, which can often be heard at night. Dingoes are an important part of Indigenous Australian culture, and they play a significant role in many Aboriginal stories and legends.
59. Tasmania is an island state located off the south-eastern coast of Australia. The island is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests and rugged mountains. Tasmania is also well-known for its delicious produce, such as fresh seafood, berries and apples.
Even More Fascinating Facts & Information About Australia, The Land Down Under
60. Australia is home to a large number of dangerous animals, including snakes, spiders, crocodiles and sharks. However, there are also many harmless and even cute animals living in Australia, such as koalas, kangaroos and quokkas. So don’t let the fear of encountering a few dangerous critters dissuade you from visiting this amazing country!
61. Australian culture is unique and diverse, with influences from all over the world. The country has a strong tradition of art, music and dance, and there are many Festivals held throughout the year celebrating different aspects of Australian culture.
62. Aboriginal Australians are the original inhabitants of the Australian continent, and their cultures have been present for over 50,000 years. Aboriginal culture is rich and diverse, with many different language groups and traditions. Today, there are around 700,000 Aboriginal Australians living in Australia.
63. The didgeridoo is a traditional musical instrument used by Aboriginal Australians. It is made from a hollowed-out tree branch and produces a low, drone-like sound. The didgeridoo is an important part of Aboriginal culture and tradition, and it is still used in ceremonies and music today.
64. Australia is home to many unique plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Some of these include the eucalyptus tree, the kangaroo, the koala and the platypus. This diversity is one of the things that makes Australia such a fascinating place to explore.
65. Australian food is as diverse as the country itself, with influences from all over the world. There are many delicious and iconic Australian dishes, such as Vegemite on toast, pavlova and meat pies. So if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try something new and sample some of the local cuisine!
66. The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks. The building was designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and it was completed in 1973. The Opera House is home to five main performance venues, and it hosts more than 1,500 performances each year.
67. Australia is sometimes referred to as “the Land Down Under” because it is located in the southern hemisphere. This means that when it is winter in Europe, it is summer in Australia! So if you’re looking to escape the cold weather, Australia might be the perfect destination.
68. Bondi Beach is one of Australia’s most famous beaches, and it’s easy to see why. The beach is located in Sydney, and it’s well-known for its beautiful golden sand and clear blue water. Bondi Beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, and it’s also a great place to people watch.
69. The Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. The reef is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 types of coral and countless other invertebrates. The Great Barrier Reef is also the world’s largest structure made of living organisms!
70. Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation located in the Northern Territory. Uluru is sacred to the Aboriginal people who have lived in the area for thousands of years, and it is an important part of their culture and tradition. Today, Uluru is a popular tourist destination, and it’s one of the most recognisable landmarks in Australia.
71. Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage-listed site located in the Northern Territory. The park is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, as well as Aboriginal rock art that is estimated to be up to 20,000 years old. Kakadu National Park is an amazing place to explore and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
72. The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest in the world, and it’s located in Queensland. The rainforest is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, including many rare and endangered species. The Daintree Rainforest is a beautiful place to explore, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia.
73. Australia is a very large country, and it covers an area of 7.692 million square kilometers. To put this into perspective, Australia is about the same size as the continental United States!
74. Australia has a population of over 24 million people, and the majority of people live in coastal cities. The five largest cities in Australia are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
Australia: Life Down Under
75. The official language of Australia is English, but there are also many other languages spoken in the country. These include Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Arabic and Vietnamese.
76. Christianity is the main religion practiced in Australia, but there is also a significant number of people who identify as atheist or agnostic.
77. Australia is a constitutional monarchy, and the current head of state is Queen Elizabeth II. The queen is represented in Australia by a Governor-General, and the country also has a Prime Minister who serves as its head of government.
78. Australia is known for its laid-back lifestyle and relaxed approach to life. In fact, the country even has its own unofficial motto: “She’ll be right!” This means that things will usually work out in the end, so there’s no need to panic or worry too much. So if you’re looking for a place that’s easy-going and stress-free, then Australia might be just what you’re after.
79. Australian cuisine is influenced by many different cultures, including British, Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Some popular dishes include meat pies, fish and chips, sausage rolls, lamingtons and pavlova.
80. Australia is famous for its unique and diverse wildlife. Some of the most iconic Australian animals include kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, dingoes, echidnas and platypuses.
81. The Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks. The Opera House is a world-famous performing arts venue, and it’s located on Sydney Harbour. The Opera House is home to many different performing arts companies, and it hosts a wide variety of theatrical productions, concerts and other events throughout the year.
82. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, and it’s located off the coast of Queensland. The reef is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia.
83. Australia is a very diverse country, and its people are just as varied. There are people of all different cultures and backgrounds living in Australia, and this is one of the things that makes the country so special.
84. Aboriginal Australians are the indigenous people of Australia, and they have a rich culture and history that goes back thousands of years. Today, there are around 700,000 Aboriginal Australians living in the country, and they make up around 3% of the population.
85. The Outback is the vast inland area of Australia that covers much of the country’s interior. The Outback is a very remote and isolated place, and it’s home to some amazing natural landscapes.
86. One of Australia’s greatest attractions is Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), a large sandstone rock formation in the Outback. Uluru is an incredibly popular tourist destination, and visitors can hike around the rock or even take a helicopter ride over it.
87. In addition to Uluru, there are many other amazing national parks in Australia that are worth exploring. Places like Kakadu National Park and The Grampians are home to beautiful scenery and unique wildlife, making them perfect for hiking, camping or just getting away from it all for a while.
88. Australia is also famous for its world-class beaches. Some of the most popular beaches in Australia include Bondi Beach, Manly Beach and Surfers Paradise. Whether you’re after quiet stretches of coastline or buzzing party beaches, you’ll find it all in Australia.
89. One of the best ways to experience Australia is to go camping and explore some of the country’s amazing national parks. Camping trips are a great way to get up close with nature, see some incredible landscapes, and just relax and unwind for a while.
90. Another popular activity in Australia is surfing. There are many great places around the country where you can go surfing – from famous spots like Bondi Beach to more off-the-beaten-path destinations like Byron Bay.
91. Australia is home to some incredible Aboriginal art, and there are many museums and galleries around the country that showcase this artwork. If you’re interested in learning more about Aboriginal culture and history, then be sure to check out these places while you’re in Australia.
92. There’s no shortage of things to do in Australia – whether you want to explore the country’s vibrant cities, go camping or hiking in its national parks, or just relax on one of its beautiful beaches. For a truly amazing Australian experience, be sure to put these top activities on your list.
93. With so much natural beauty and diversity, it’s no wonder that Australia is such a popular travel destination for people from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation or a more relaxed trip, Australia has something to offer everyone. So why not start planning your own Australian getaway today?
94. From its stunning beaches and lush rainforests to its unique wildlife and friendly locals, there’s no doubt that Australia is a country like no other. If you’re lucky enough to visit this amazing place, you’ll be sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
95.Australia is a land of many contrasts – from the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne to the remote Outback and everything in between. No matter what type of traveller you are, there’s sure to be something in Australia that will appeal to you.
96. Australia is a vast and diverse country, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what to pack for your trip. However, there are a few essential items that you’ll need regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing. Be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, comfortable shoes and plenty of water.
97. When it comes to accommodation, Australia has something to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hotel, hostel, apartment or even a camping spot, you’ll be able to find it in Australia.
98. Australia is home to some of the best food and drink in the world. From fresh seafood and succulent steaks to delicious fruits and vegetables, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Australia. And of course, don’t forget to try a few of the country’s world-famous wines while you’re there!
99. Australia is home to some of the most unique and interesting animals in the world!
100. Kangaroos are one of the most iconic Australian animals. They are also one of the largest marsupials in the world, with males weighing up to 200kg!
101. Tasmanian devils are another fascinating Australian animal. These feisty little creatures are the largest carnivorous marsupial in the world!
102. Wallabies are another iconic Australian animal. There are over 30 different species of wallaby, which can be found all across Australia.
103. Koalas are one of the most popular Australian animals. These cuddly creatures are actually marsupials, and they spend most of their lives sleeping high up in the trees!
