Australia

Australia is both a country and a continent. It is the smallest continent but the sixth largest country. Australia is famous for its unique animals like kangaroos and koalas. The Great Barrier Reef off its coast is the largest living structure on Earth.

Land and People

About 26 million people live in Australia. The capital is Canberra, but the biggest cities are Sydney and Melbourne. Most of the center is dry outback desert. The coasts have beaches, rainforests, and modern cities.

Culture and Fun Facts

Australia has animals found nowhere else, like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and platypuses. The Aboriginal people have lived there for over 65,000 years, the longest continuous culture on Earth. Australians love surfing, cricket, and barbecues. They call friends 'mates.'

Fun Facts

• The Great Barrier Reef is so big it can be seen from outer space.
• Australia has more than 10,000 beaches.
• Aboriginal Australians have the oldest continuous culture on Earth, going back over 65,000 years.

Did You Know?

Australia has some of the most unique animals in the world because it has been an island for millions of years. The platypus is a mammal that lays eggs and has a bill like a duck. The kangaroo carries its baby in a pouch. You will not find these animals living wild anywhere else.