Australia
Australia is a continent that has been inhabited for thousands of years by Aborigines, and was settled by the British on 26th of January, 1788. It is located in the Southern Hemisphere, and is the world’s smallest continent. It is considered a developed country. Its national anthem is Advance Australia Fair.
History
Studies have found that Australia was probably first inhabited between 40,000 and 45,000 years ago, but other studies conclude that it may have been much longer ago than this. It is possible that they migrated from Asia.
Before colonisation by the British in 1788, Australia was inhabited by indigenous people called Aborigines. These people lived nomadic lives in tribes, located throughout all of Australia, including the deserts, but especially along the coast. Their population remained stable over the duration of their existence, and they remained primitive up until the British arrived. Notable inventions by the Aborigines include the boomerang and the didgeridoo. The Aborigines, like many other races, created mythological stories known collectively as the ‘dreamtime’ stories. These stories cover areas such as the creation of various landmarks, rivers, and star constellations. Many Aborigines exist today, and are able to continue their tradition, however, many feel that they have not been given back what they are owed for many years of mistreatment. Recently, many steps have been taken to increase the quality of life of the Aborigines.
During World War I, Australia played a major role in the battle of Gallipoli, an attempt to open the channel for trade with Russia. However, due to poor planning and other factors, it was an overall failure. Despite this, Australians commemorate the battle with ANZAC day. The landings at Gallipoli are considered Australia’s ‘baptism of fire’.
During World War II, mainland Australia saw no action except for rare surprise bombings of the northern cities by Japanese planes. However, Australia did fight in many significant battles in order to stop the advance of Japan.
Australia took part in both the Vietnam War and second Iraq War. It is a supporter of the war on terrorism.
Australia is still a member of the British Commonwealth, and has the Union Jack on its flag, along with the Southern Cross and Commonwealth Star.
States and Territories
Australia is divided up into five states and two territories. Each with a capital city. The capital territory of Australia is the Australian Capital Territory, and the capital city of Australia is Canberra.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) - Canberra
New South Wales (NSW) - Sydney
Queensland (QLD) - Brisbane
South Australia (SA) - Adelaide
Northern Territory (NT) - Darwin
Western Australia (WA) – Perth
Economy
Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD) as its currency. Currently one Australian dollar trades for about 0.8 US Dollars.
Politics
Australia’s current Prime Minister is John Howard of the Liberal Party. The opposition is the Labor Party, led by Kevin Rudd. Unlike many other countries, voting is compulsory for all Australian citizens aged 18 or over. Australia is a constitutional monarchy, with Elizabeth II as its queen.
Australia has close relations with the United States and Asia, and has special trade treaties with both. Australia currently has a free-trade agreement with the United States.