History

Aborigines were believed to have migrated from Asia to Australia as early as 50,000 to 60,000 years ago. Early European exploration of Australia began in the early 1600s when the Spanish navigator, Luis Vaez de Torres sailed through the Torres Straits. The European exploration of Australia began during the late 1960s and the famous Captain James Cook arrived later during the late 1700s. After nine days of chartering the coastline of Australia, he landed on a gulf that he named Botany Bay whereby he found a rich variety of botanical life forms. This area is now part of the busy modern city of Sydney. European settlement began in 1788 when the British needed to relieve their overcrowded prisons. As Australia was also the entry point to the economic opportunity surrounding the country, the British made the decision to colonise the country. This decision was then authorised by Lord Sydney. On May 13, 1787, Captain Arthur Phillip, commanding eleven ships full of convicts, left for Australia. He first landed on Botany Bay on January 18, 1788 but left after eight days upon discovering its openness and poor quality soil. Instead, he settled at Port Jackson, a few kilometers north. The ships landed 1,373 people, whereby 732 were convicts. Today, this settlement is known as the capital city of New South Wales, Sydney.  The day of this first fleet landing is now celebrated every year on the 26th January by all Australians and is known as the Australia Day.

Geography

Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia is also sometimes known as the "Land Down Under". Being the largest island continent in the world, its coastline stretches as long as 18,500 kilometers with an area of 1.1 million hectares. It is also one of the world's most urbanised countries whereby 70% of a total 18.1 million population are city dwellers. The landscape varies from a hoarse yet eye-captivating "red desert" in Central Australia to the tranquil and lush tropical rainforest in North Queensland. The western districts of Victoria boasts its bright green scenery while New South Wales take pride in its snowfields. The country is made up of 6 states and 2 territories, which are Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and the Northern Territory respectively.

Culture

English is the Australian language and the main language. Australian culture is a unique blend of many distinctive cultures. The population is made up of a harmonious blend of Aborigines, Australians, Europeans, Asians, Torres Straits Islanders, as well as Middle Easterners. Each and every one of them contribute their unique heritage and culture to make the Australian nation a rich and colorful one. Australia's multicultural policy rests on three main principles, namely the right to cultural identity, the value of social justice, and the interest in economic efficiency. To this end, the policy contributes to the recognition of one of the most successful nations in building a tolerant, inclusive, and culturally diverse society.

Climate and Weather

The weather in Australia varies considerably due to the size of the continent. The climate varies from the tropics to the rugged hot desert, from the warm waters of tropical coast to the cool snowy mountains of the Australian Alps. The climate you choose will depend on what you love to do most. If you like bush walking in the rainforests, then the tropical parts of Queensland and Northern Territory will provide the adventure you are seeking. Those who indulge in water sports should adventure the beaches of Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and not forgetting the Great Barrier Reef, all of which are fascinating sights. For those looking for cool places for some skiing, the Australian Alps and Snowy Mountains should be your destination. Australia offers variety in terms of things to do based on the unique climate and weather in each state. You are assured that whatever your interests are, there will be a destination for you in Australia.