Australia (continent)

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Continent on the Earth's Southern Hemisphere

Australia is a continent located in the Southern Hemisphere, comprising the mainland of the country of Australia, the island of New Guinea (shared by Papua New Guinea and Indonesia), and numerous smaller islands. It is the smallest of the world's continents, covering an area of approximately 8.6 million square kilometers.

Geography

Australia is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. The continent is characterized by diverse landscapes, including deserts, tropical rainforests, and mountain ranges. The Great Dividing Range runs along the eastern coast, while the Outback covers much of the interior.

Climate

The climate of Australia varies significantly across the continent. The northern regions experience a tropical climate, with wet and dry seasons, while the southern regions have a temperate climate. The interior, known as the Outback, is arid and semi-arid.

Flora and Fauna

Australia is renowned for its unique flora and fauna, much of which is found nowhere else in the world. The continent is home to iconic species such as the kangaroo, koala, and platypus. The diverse ecosystems range from tropical rainforests in the north to temperate forests in the south.

History

The history of human habitation in Australia dates back tens of thousands of years, with the indigenous Aboriginal Australians being the continent's original inhabitants. European exploration began in the 17th century, with the first recorded European landing by Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon in 1606. British colonization began in 1788 with the establishment of a penal colony at Botany Bay.

Demographics

The population of the Australian continent is approximately 42 million people, with the majority residing in the country of Australia. Major cities include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The continent is known for its multicultural society, with a significant proportion of the population being immigrants.

Economy

Australia's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from mining, agriculture, and services. The continent is rich in natural resources, including coal, iron ore, and gold. The agricultural sector produces a variety of crops and livestock, while the services sector, including tourism, plays a vital role in the economy.

Related Pages

• Australia
• New Guinea
• Great Dividing Range
• Outback
• Aboriginal Australians
• Sydney
• Melbourne
• Brisbane
• Perth

See Also

• Geography of Australia
• Climate of Australia
• Flora of Australia
• Fauna of Australia
• History of Australia
• Economy of Australia

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