Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is a union of six states, each with its own unique mix of environments, cultures, and rhythms. These include New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania. In addition to these states, Australia also has several territories, including the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Northern Territory. Each state and territory boasts its own attractions, from rolling deserts and quaint capitals to lush rainforests and sun-soaked cities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of states and territories | 8 |
| Capital | Canberra |
| States | Western Australia, Northern Territory, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania |
| Capitals of the states | Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart |
| Territories | Australian Capital Territory, Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, the Cocos (or Keeling) Islands, the Jervis Bay Territory, the Coral Sea Islands, Heard and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island, the Australian Antarctic Territory |
| Legislative powers | Each state and internal territory has its own legislature, except Jervis Bay Territory |
| Judicial system | Each state and internal territory has its own judicial system |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The ACT is home to many important institutions of the federal government, national monuments, and museums. These include the Parliament of Australia, the High Court of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Museum of Australia. The territory also includes the Namadgi National Park, which comprises the majority of the territory's land area. The ACT has a relatively dry, continental climate, with warm to hot summers and cool to cold winters.
The ACT is unique among Australian states and self-governing territories as it has no vice-regal post exercising authority as the representative of the monarch. The legislative powers of the states are protected by the Australian constitution, while the territories are directly subject to the Commonwealth government. The ACT has some degree of self-government, with the Australian Parliament retaining the power to override laws made by the territorial institutions. The framework for self-government was established by the Australian Capital Territory (Self-Government) Act 1988, which constitutes a democratic government for the territory consisting of a popularly elected Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Assembly for the ACT, also known as the ACT Legislative Assembly, is the unicameral legislature of the territory. It sits in the Legislative Assembly Building on Civic Square, close to the centre of Canberra.
The ACT Electoral Commission has recommended increasing the size of the Legislative Assembly to three electorates, each returning seven members, for a total of 21 members. The Assembly currently has 25 members, elected from five electorates: Brindabella, Ginninderra, Kurrajong, Murrumbidgee, and Yerrabi. The current Chief Minister is Andrew Barr, who is also the Minister for Economic Development and Minister for Tourism and Trade.
Travel Distance: Australia to Costa Rica
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Northern Territory
The economy of the Northern Territory is largely based on mining and petroleum, which contributed 23% of the gross state product, or $5.68 billion, during 2018-2019. The Northern Territory also has a thriving tourism industry, with visitors attracted by its iconic natural treasures, ancient Aboriginal culture, birdlife, wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and colourful characters. Popular destinations include Kakadu National Park, Uluru/Ayers Rock, and the city of Darwin, with its tropical outdoor lifestyle, harbour cruises, alfresco markets, open-air cinema, and swimming holes in nearby national parks.
Converting Australian Dollars to US Dollars: The Exchange Rate Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Australia, Sydney [Map Pack Bundle] (National Geographic Adventure Map)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91bnKrWX+4L._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Queensland
The history of Queensland dates back to its first inhabitants, the Aboriginal Australians, including the Torres Strait Islanders. Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon was the first European to land in Australia, exploring the west coast of the Cape York Peninsula in 1606. In 1770, James Cook claimed the east coast of Australia for the Kingdom of Great Britain. Queensland was established as a separate colony from New South Wales on June 6, 1859, and it became one of the founding states of Australia on January 1, 1901.
Title Insurance: Worth the Cost in Australia?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
New South Wales
Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular destination accessible by a short plane trip from the mainland. The island boasts the world's most southerly coral reefs, as well as lovely beaches and excellent fishing, snorkelling, and diving opportunities. The original inhabitants of New South Wales were Aboriginal tribes, who arrived in Australia about 40,000 to 60,000 years ago. There are various Aboriginal peoples whose traditional lands are within the state, including the Wiradjuri, Gamilaray, Yuin, Ngarigo, Gweagal, and Ngiyampaa peoples.
In terms of geography, New South Wales borders Queensland to the north, Victoria to the south, and South Australia to the west. Its coast borders the Coral and Tasman Seas to the east. The Australian Capital Territory and Jervis Bay Territory are enclaves within the state. New South Wales has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, culture, and history, making it a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.
Amber Electricity: Australian-Owned Power Provider
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Victoria
Melbourne is known for its cultural diversity, modern cityscape, and friendly atmosphere. The city boasts a thriving food and restaurant scene, as well as numerous museums, art galleries, and theatres. Beyond Melbourne, Victoria is home to several other major cities, including Geelong, Ballarat, and Bendigo. The state also has a rich Aboriginal history, with numerous Aboriginal groups having occupied the land for tens of thousands of years before European settlement.
With its mix of vibrant cities, diverse landscapes, and cultural offerings, Victoria is a popular destination for visitors seeking unforgettable experiences in Australia.
John Lewis Shipping to Australia: All You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The six states of Australia are New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania.
The capital of Australia is Canberra, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
Western Australia is the largest state, situated on the west coast of the country.
The capital of Victoria is Melbourne.
