Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is divided into six states and two territories, each with its own unique mix of environments, cultures, and rhythms. The most populous state in Australia is New South Wales, with Sydney as its capital city. However, in recent years, Victoria has been the most popular state for people moving within Australia, with Melbourne as its capital city. Queensland is also a popular state, known as the 'Sunshine State' and Brisbane as its capital city. Western Australia is the largest state in terms of land area, with Perth as its capital city. Each state in Australia offers a diverse range of attractions, from pristine beaches and mountain ranges to vibrant cities and cultural experiences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most populous state | New South Wales |
| Most populated city | Sydney |
| Second most populous state | Victoria |
| Capital of Victoria | Melbourne |
| Third most populous state | Queensland |
| Capital of Queensland | Brisbane |
| Fourth most populous state | Western Australia |
| Capital of Western Australia | Perth |
| Fifth most populous state | South Australia |
| Capital of South Australia | Adelaide |
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What You'll Learn
Population size
Australia is divided into six states and two territories, with the majority of Australians living in the eastern coastal mainland states of New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. Together, these states account for 79% of the entire population of Australia.
New South Wales is the most populated state in Australia, with its capital city, Sydney, also being the most populated city in the country. Queensland is the second most populated state, with around 20% of the country's population, and its capital, Brisbane, is the third-largest city in Australia. Queensland is also known as the 'Sunshine State' due to its subtropical climate and sunny weather.
Victoria is another highly populated state, with its capital, Melbourne, being a significant destination for overseas migration. In fact, between April and September, over 32,000 Australians moved to Victoria, and it is projected that Melbourne's population will double by 2056, surpassing Sydney.
Western Australia is the fourth most populous state, constituting about 10% of the country's population. It is also the largest state in terms of land area, covering approximately 33% of Australia's total area. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is the fourth-largest city in the country.
South Australia is the fifth most populous state, making up about 7% of the country's population. Adelaide, its capital, is home to around 5% of Australia's total population.
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Migration trends
- New South Wales (NSW): NSW is home to Sydney, the most populated city in Australia. It offers a diverse range of attractions, including wine regions, seaside villages, and mountain wilderness. However, between April and September, NSW experienced a net emigration of 2000 people, with residents moving to other states like Victoria.
- Victoria: Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, has been hailed as the "Most Liveable City in the World" for its cultural diversity, modern cityscape, and friendly atmosphere. Between April and September, more than 32,000 Australians migrated to Victoria, particularly from Queensland, Western Australia, and NSW.
- Queensland: Known as the "Sunshine State," Queensland is a subtropical destination in northeast Australia. It boasts attractions like the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and the Whitsunday Islands. Brisbane, the state's capital, is the country's third-largest city. Queensland accounts for about 20% of Australia's population.
- Western Australia: As the largest state in Australia, Western Australia covers 33% of the country's total area. It offers diverse attractions, including the Kimberley Region, Rottnest Island, and the Margaret River region. Perth, the state's capital, is the fourth-largest city in Australia, accounting for about 8% of the country's population.
- South Australia: South Australia is known for its laid-back atmosphere and thriving arts scene, earning the nickname the "Festival State." Adelaide, its capital, is a great base for exploring the Barossa Valley wineries and Kangaroo Island. South Australia accounts for about 7% of the country's population and has a high percentage of home ownership, with 32.8% of homes fully owned by residents.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): The ACT is home to Canberra, the nation's capital. It offers a blend of nature and culture, with attractions such as the National Gallery of Australia and Parliament House. The ACT has a high level of local government coverage, with suburban local government areas serving a significant portion of its urban population.
These migration trends highlight the factors that influence Australians' choices when moving between states and territories, such as quality of life, job opportunities, and access to cultural experiences and natural attractions.
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Capital cities
Australia is divided into six states and two territories, each with its own unique mix of environments, cultures, and capital cities. Here is a list of the capital cities of the six states:
New South Wales
The capital of New South Wales (NSW) is Sydney, the most populated city in Australia. NSW is the ultimate all-rounder destination, with the Sapphire Coast to the south, the Central Coast to the north, and the Blue Mountains to the west. It is known for its wine regions, seaside villages, and mountain wilderness.
Queensland
Queensland (QLD), also known as the 'Sunshine State', is a subtropical stretch of land in the northeast of Australia. It is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and the Whitsunday Islands. The capital, Brisbane (or Brissie), is known for its winter sunshine and warmth, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports.
South Australia
South Australia (SA) is a laid-back destination, perfect for relaxation. The capital, Adelaide, is a great base for exploring the Barossa Valley wineries, the Flinders Ranges, and Kangaroo Island. Adelaide is home to about 5% of the country's population and is the fifth-largest city in Australia.
Victoria
Victoria (VIC) is the cultural heart of Australia, centred around its capital, Melbourne. Melbourne has been named the 'Most Liveable City in the World' multiple times due to its cultural diversity, modern cityscape, and friendly atmosphere.
Western Australia
Western Australia (WA) is the largest state, located on the west coast of the country. It offers a diverse range of attractions, from the dramatic Kimberley Region to the idyllic Rottnest Island. The capital, Perth, is renowned for its serene, uncrowded beaches, parklands, and fresh seafood. It is the fourth-largest city in Australia, accounting for about 8% of the country's population.
Australian Capital Territory
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is home to the nation's capital, Canberra. The ACT blends nature and culture, with monuments, museums, lakes, and wetlands. It is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and is home to important institutions such as the National Gallery of Australia and Parliament House.
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Natural attractions
Australia is known for its natural attractions, from its famous pink lakes to its ancient rock formations. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions in Australia:
The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is arguably Australia's most famous natural landmark and a must-visit destination. Stretching for almost 2,000 miles along the Queensland coast, it is the world's largest coral reef system. It is home to an incredibly diverse range of marine life, including over 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of tropical fish, 30 species of whales and dolphins, and six out of seven sea turtle species. The reef is also one of the only living things on Earth visible from space. Above the water, the reef is dotted with tropical islands and sun-soaked beaches.
Uluru
Uluru, also known as Ayer's Rock, is a giant monolith located in Australia's Red Centre. It is one of the most famous attractions in Australia and has been a significant landmark for Aboriginal people for centuries. The sheer size of this rock formation is astounding, emerging from an otherwise flat landscape.
The Kimberley Region
The Kimberley region in Western Australia is known for its unique natural attractions, including the Bungle Bungle Range, the Mitchell Falls, and the orange and black striped domes of the Purnululu National Park. The region is geologically astounding, with chasms, gorges, and the signature yellow and black striped domes of the Bungle Bungles, formed over 20 million years of erosion.
Tasmania
Tasmania, an island state off the mainland, is famous for its lush greenery, breathtaking mountains, cascading waterfalls, and clean air. Over 20% of the state is a World Heritage area, including 18 national parks. Tasmania is also known for its cool-climate wines and offers a mix of food adventures, cultural immersion, and outdoor activities.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth was crowned Australia's best tourist attraction in 2024. This 399.9-hectare urban park boasts some of the greatest views in the city, with protected bushland, a century-old avenue, and beautiful outdoor event spaces.
The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains, home to the steepest passenger railway in the world, offer a distinctive landscape with native Australian forests, towering eucalypt and gum trees, and flowering plants. It is a sanctuary for unique Australian wildlife, including koalas, wombats, and birds such as kookaburras.
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Culture and festivals
Australia is a culturally diverse nation with a rich history of democracy and stable government. The country is home to the world's oldest continuing culture, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples inhabiting the land for over 60,000 years. The Aboriginal culture is particularly prominent in the Northern Territory, where one can experience sublime landscapes, emblematic wildlife, and authentic Aboriginal experiences.
Victoria, with its capital Melbourne, is considered the thriving heart of culture in Australia. Melbourne has been awarded the title of 'Most Liveable City in the World' multiple times due to its cultural diversity, modern cityscape, and friendly atmosphere. The city boasts some of Australia's best cafes and restaurants, as well as a thriving performing arts scene. Melbourne is also the birthplace of Australian rules football, which is the most highly attended spectator sport in the country. The Australian Football League (AFL) Grand Final is traditionally played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on the last Saturday of September.
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is considered the wine and festival capital of Australia. The city is surrounded by picturesque wine regions and hosts various cultural events. Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, is Australia's largest city and home to iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. It is a cultural melting pot, with a diverse population and a thriving restaurant scene.
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is nestled on the banks of the Swan River and enjoys a Mediterranean-style climate. The city boasts some of Australia's best cultural and artistic centres. Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, has a subtropical climate and is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations, offering outdoor activities and water sports.
Australia is also known for its vibrant festival scene, with cultural festivals that are calendar highlights nationally and internationally. The country's sporting culture is prominent, with sports such as cricket, rugby, Australian rules football, and swimming being widely popular. The Sydney to Hobart yacht race, the Melbourne Cup horse race, and the AFL Grand Final are some of the most anticipated sporting events in the country.
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Frequently asked questions
New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia, with Sydney being the most populated city in the state and the country.
Victoria. Between April and September, more than 32,000 Australians moved to Victoria, with most people moving from Queensland, Western Australia, and New South Wales.
The six federated states of Australia are New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Western Australia.
