Travelling to Australia

Australia is the world's only island continent. Our shores are bathed by the Pacific, Indian and Southern Oceans and our waters stretch from the tropics to the Antarctic. The current population is around 21 million and more than 80% of the Australian population lives within 50 kilometres of the coast. There are 10,685 beaches on which to play - that's more than anywhere else on Earth.

Typical city life reflects the vigor of a young and ambitious nation combines with a relaxed and casual outlook, passion for local food and produce and a love for outdoor living and water-based recreation. It's a heady mix that sparks great energy expressed by multi-cultural and cosmopolitan precincts, fabulous festivals and spectacular events.

Nature was inspired when it created Australia - animals you'll see nowhere else and plants that will amaze you. Australia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet, home to more than one million species of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

Australia is home to 16 World-Heritage sites. One of these, Kakadu National Park, covers a land area of almost 20,000 square kilometres - the same size as the country of Israel. About 81 million hectares (10.5% of our land area is protected in national Reserve and there are 547 national parks.

Across this massive land and all its 12,000 islands, thousands of possible journeys connect endless unique Australian experiences, destinations and products. From the very beginning of our creation, Aboriginal people knew it was only by travelling the land, letting nature and spirits shape the journey, that they could have a true understanding of Australia. Travelling in Australia is about discovering the diversity, the wonder, isolation and vibrant towns, the people and their unique way of life. You can take weeks meandering through rolling countryside, red desert, sparkling waterholes and spiritual heritage, or a few days exploring wine regions, wilderness coast, island clusters, reefs.... the choices are endless.

Go Outback to experience endless space and the roots of our culture in the vast Red Centre, or ‘out bush' to country towns, to hinterlands and boutique regions. Or take a break from your usual world - meet a Winemaker, go deep-sea fishing or spot a croc. Travelling our ancient and lightly travelled land is one of the most rewarding journeys you will experience.

For more information about combining your visit to Australia for the 34th IAHR and seeing some of the best parts of our beautiful country please visit Tourism Australia