HUCKLEBERRY Education Service

Official name	Commonwealth of Australia
Capital City	Canberra
Land area	Approximately 7.7 million km2
Population	19.7 million
Official Language	English
Religion	Christian, Catholic etc
Currency	Australian dollar

People from approximately 140 countries have migrated to Australia, making Australia a diverse country. In 1996, Australia went through a large restructure resulting in the economy and industry waking up and continuing to develop. It is a beautiful country with modern culture and beautiful nature in harmony.

The Australian Continent
Australia is approximately 7.7 million km2 in area, whilst it is the smallest continent in the world it is also the largest island. In 1788, the first settlers arrived in Sydney from Europe, and Australia was founded. Australia’s majesty lies in its beautiful nature. It is surrounded by ocean, with large areas of natural parks, while the centre is a dry desert, there are areas where rainfall is plenty and rich for farming. Most of Australia’s population live near the coast. Due to its expansive size the temperatures are varied, the north enjoy a tropical climate, the central eastern and western areas enjoy a warm climate, whilst it is cool in the south.

Friendly Aussies
People from different walks of life, aboriginals, the first settlers from Europe, and the migrants from all around the world have brought with them their cultures, making Australia a multi-cultural society which has become the basis of the Australian identity; this has been the driving force to help correspond to this fast changing world. From their nickname ‘Aussie’ you can imagine their friendly easy going nature; it is a nationality and country that you can fall in love with easily.

Sports and Outdoor
More than half of all Australians enjoy at least one sport or an outdoor activity on a regular basis. The most popular is walking, but due to Australia’s being an island swimming and surfing are also extremely popular. There are many famous places for surfing which attract surfers from all over the world. Australian’s also enjoy watching sport, in particular Australian Football, rugby and cricket. Central and coastal Australia has truly spectacular scenery. The numerous national parks are ideal for trekking and camping adding to Australia’s attraction.

Rich cuisine
Australia’s cuisine is truly varied. Migrants have brought with them their national dishes which are served up in restaurants around the country. Of course, Australian beef and the fresh seafood from the coastal Australia are also majestic. Australians enjoy entertaining at home and barbeques. There is also a large variety of fruits and vegetables, which add to the flavour.