Australia is the sixth largest country in the world but has the lowest population density in the world - only two individuals per square km.

Australia’s population is concentrated along the coastal areas of Australia with the centre of Australia being sparsely populated.

More than 5 million people visit Australia every year.

With 15 years of continuous economic growth, Australia's reputation as a highly competitive economy continues to strengthen.

The Australian economy has been ranked 6^th globally in overall competitiveness in 2006, and third in the Asia Pacific region. Among the countries with population of 20 million or more, Australia ranks second in terms of overall competitiveness, behind only the United States.

Australia has one of the most stable and dynamic economies in the world.

The quality of life enjoyed by people in Australia is one of the highest in the world.

A report from the Economist Intelligence Unit rated Melbourne , Perth , Adelaide , Brisbane and Sydney  in the world’s top 10 most livable cities. The survey ranks 130 cities against factors such as health and safety, infrastructure, culture and environment.

Australia has an important heritage from its indigenous people, which plays a defining role in the cultural landscape .

Although English is the official language in Australia, more than 20% of the population speaks a second language.

Australia has more beaches than anywhere else in the world, more than 10,000! Australians are custodians of one-third of the world's protected marine areas.

Australia is home to 16 World Heritage sites. (http://whc.unesco.org/en)