In land area, Australia is the sixth largest nation after Russia, Canada, China, the United States of America and Brazil. It has, however, a relatively small population.
The highest point on the mainland, Mount Kosciuszko, is only 2228 metres.
Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth. Its interior has one of the lowest rainfalls in the world and about three-quarters of the land is arid or semi-arid. Its fertile areas are well-watered, however, and these are used very effectively to help feed the world. Sheep and cattle graze in dry country, but care must be taken with the soil.
The Australian federation consists of six States and two Territories.
Immigration is an important feature of Australian society. Since 1945, over six million people from 200 countries have come to Australia as new settlers. Migrants have made a major contribution to shaping modern Australia.
For each person in Australia there are two sheep and over 16 rabbits.
Rabbits were introduced in 1859 by a man who brought 24 wild rabbits from England in an effort to remind him of home. Now their ever growing number competes for food in the wild with the native animals.
Per Capita, Australians spend more money on gambling than any other nation. considering that we have less than 1 percent of the world's population, we also have more than 20% of the world's poker machines.
Swimming - In 1838 it was declared illegal to swim at public beaches during the day! This law was enforced until 1902.
It may surprise you to know that Australia's first police force was comprised of 12 of the most well behaved Convicts.