Australia, officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country and continent located in the Southern Hemisphere, lying between the Pacific and Indian oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by land area. Canberra is the capital, while Sydney and Melbourne are the largest cities, both with populations exceeding five million. The population is concentrated along the eastern seaboard. Australia is known for its unique flora and fauna, including eucalyptus trees, kangaroos, koalas, and the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system.
Australia is a multicultural country with a strong, open economy. Its diverse landscapes range from deserts to tropical rainforests. Key attractions include the Sydney Opera House, Uluru (Ayers Rock), and numerous beaches. Recent developments include significant investments in renewable energy, with New South Wales designating 22GWh of pumped hydro projects as critical infrastructure in February 2026. Additionally, a new agreement between Australia and New Zealand aims to strengthen trade and innovation across both countries.