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Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is the world's sixth-largest country by total area. It is located in the southern hemisphere and consists of the Australian mainland, Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.
Australia is unique in the fact that it is both a country and a continent. It is surrounded by the Indian and Pacific oceans. Its capital is Canberra, while its largest city is Sydney. Other major cities include Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide.
The country is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the arid deserts of the Outback to the snowy mountains of the Australian Alps, to lush rainforests and beautiful beaches. Its Great Barrier Reef is one of the world's greatest natural wonders.
Australia has a population of over 25 million people. English is the de facto national language. The country has a high standard of living and ranks highly in many global comparisons of national performance, such as human development, quality of life, health, education, and economic freedoms.
Australia has a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy form of government, with Queen Elizabeth II being the queen of Australia. The country has a strong economy, with sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and services playing significant roles.
It is also famous for its unique fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, and various species of marsupials and birds. The culture of Australia is primarily a Western culture influenced by its geography, history, and the cultural inputs from Indigenous people and the various waves of multi-ethnic immigration. Australia is known for its landmark buildings such as the Sydney Opera House and its ancient geologic features such as Uluru and the Kimberley region's Bungle Bungle Range.
