Explore the State map of Australia, it is divided into six states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania. Each state has its own government and capital city, with Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Hobart serving as the respective capitals. Together, these states cover an area of about 2.97 million square miles and are home to over 25 million people. New South Wales is the most populous state, while Western Australia is the largest by area. These states play a crucial role in Australia's political, economic, and cultural landscape.
Expore this Australia political map showing six states and seven external territories of Australia.
States and Territories of Australia
Australia is composed of six states and two main territories, each with its own distinct geography, economy, and cultural identity. The states are New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania, while the territories include the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. This content provides an in-depth look at each state and territory, highlighting key data, facts, and figures.
New South Wales (NSW)
New South Wales is Australia's most populous state, with over 8 million residents as of 2021. Sydney, the state capital, is the largest city in Australia and a major global financial hub.
Area: Approximately 312,528 square miles (809,444 square kilometers).
Population: About 8.2 million.
Economy: NSW boasts the largest economy among Australian states, driven by finance, manufacturing, and tourism. It contributes around 32% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Blue Mountains, and Bondi Beach.
Victoria
Victoria is the second-most populous state, known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. Melbourne, its capital, is often ranked as one of the world's most livable cities.
Area: Approximately 91,761 square miles (237,659 square kilometers).
Population: About 6.7 million.
Economy: Victoria's economy is diversified, with strengths in finance, manufacturing, and education. It accounts for around 23% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, Yarra Valley, and Melbourne’s cultural institutions.
Queensland
Queensland is famous for its sunny climate and natural attractions, including the Great Barrier Reef. Brisbane, the state capital, is a major business center.
Area: Approximately 715,309 square miles (1,851,736 square kilometers).
Population: About 5.2 million.
Economy: Key industries include mining, agriculture, and tourism. Queensland contributes about 19% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast, Daintree Rainforest, and the Whitsunday Islands.
Western Australia
Western Australia is the largest state by area, encompassing vast deserts and long coastlines. Perth, its capital, is known for its high quality of life and resource-driven economy.
Area: Approximately 1,021,478 square miles (2,645,615 square kilometers).
Population: About 2.7 million.
Economy: The state's economy is heavily reliant on mining, particularly iron ore and natural gas, contributing about 17% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Kings Park, Rottnest Island, Ningaloo Reef, and the Kimberley region.
South Australia
South Australia is known for its wine regions and festivals. Adelaide, the state capital, is noted for its food and cultural events.
Area: Approximately 379,725 square miles (983,482 square kilometers).
Population: About 1.7 million.
Economy: Key sectors include manufacturing, defense technology, and wine production. South Australia contributes around 6% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, Flinders Ranges, and Adelaide's festivals.
Tasmania
Tasmania is an island state known for its rugged wilderness and heritage sites. Hobart, its capital, is a gateway to Antarctica and a hub for tourism and arts.
Area: Approximately 26,410 square miles (68,401 square kilometers).
Population: About 541,000.
Economy: The economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and aquaculture. Tasmania contributes about 1.5% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Cradle Mountain, Port Arthur, Wineglass Bay, and MONA (Museum of Old and New Art).
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The Australian Capital Territory is home to the nation's capital, Canberra, which houses the federal government and numerous national institutions.
Area: Approximately 910 square miles (2,358 square kilometers).
Population: About 430,000.
Economy: The economy is primarily driven by government administration, education, and research. ACT contributes around 2% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, and Lake Burley Griffin.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory is known for its remote landscapes, including national parks and Aboriginal heritage sites. Darwin, the capital, serves as a regional hub for tourism and trade.
Area: Approximately 548,092 square miles (1,421,121 square kilometers).
Population: About 246,000.
Economy: The economy relies on mining, tourism, and defense. The Northern Territory contributes about 1.5% of the national GDP.
Key Attractions: Kakadu National Park, Uluru, Katherine Gorge, and Litchfield National Park.
Australia's external territories are a collection of islands and territories located beyond the mainland. These territories are integral parts of Australia, each with unique characteristics, ecological significance, and strategic importance. The main external territories include Norfolk Island, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, the Australian Antarctic Territory, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, the Coral Sea Islands, and the Ashmore and Cartier Islands. This content provides an in-depth look at each external territory, highlighting key data, facts, and figures.
Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island is located in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,412 kilometers (877 miles) east of the Australian mainland. It is known for its lush landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant community.
Area: Approximately 14 square miles (35 square kilometers).
Population: Around 1,750 residents.
Economy: The economy relies on tourism, fishing, and agriculture. The island's scenic beauty and historic sites, such as the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area, attract visitors.
Governance: Norfolk Island has a local council responsible for governance, operating under Australian federal oversight.
Christmas Island
Christmas Island is situated in the Indian Ocean, about 2,600 kilometers (1,616 miles) northwest of Perth. It is renowned for its unique wildlife, particularly the annual red crab migration.
Area: Approximately 52 square miles (135 square kilometers).
Population: Around 1,900 residents.
Economy: The economy is driven by phosphate mining, tourism, and the detention center operated by the Australian government.
Environment: The island's rainforest is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a significant ecological site.
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands consist of 27 coral islands in two atolls, located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,750 kilometers (1,709 miles) northwest of Perth.
Area: Approximately 5.4 square miles (14 square kilometers).
Population: Around 600 residents, mainly on Home Island and West Island.
Economy: The economy is based on tourism, coconut production, and government services. The islands are known for their clear waters and coral reefs.
Culture: The islands have a rich cultural heritage influenced by the Cocos Malay community.
Australian Antarctic Territory
The Australian Antarctic Territory (AAT) is the portion of Antarctica claimed by Australia, covering approximately 42% of the continent.
Area: Approximately 2.27 million square miles (5.9 million square kilometers).
Population: Varies seasonally, with about 200 personnel at Australian research stations during summer.
Research: The territory is crucial for scientific research, with major research stations including Mawson, Davis, and Casey.
Environmental Importance: The AAT plays a key role in global climate research and conservation efforts.
Heard Island and McDonald Islands
Heard Island and McDonald Islands are remote volcanic islands in the Southern Ocean, about 4,100 kilometers (2,548 miles) southwest of Perth.
Area: Approximately 144 square miles (372 square kilometers).
Population: Uninhabited, except for temporary scientific expeditions.
Geography: Heard Island is dominated by the active volcano, Big Ben, which includes Mawson Peak, the highest point in Australian territory.
Environmental Significance: These islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site due to their pristine natural environment and significant wildlife populations.
Coral Sea Islands
The Coral Sea Islands are scattered over a vast area of the Coral Sea, east of the Great Barrier Reef.
Area: The islands themselves are small and mostly uninhabited, but the territory covers about 400,000 square miles (1 million square kilometers) of ocean.
Population: Uninhabited, with occasional visits by scientists and conservationists.
Conservation: The area is important for marine biodiversity and is part of the Coral Sea Marine Park, one of the world's largest marine protected areas.
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
The Ashmore and Cartier Islands are two small groups of uninhabited islands in the Timor Sea, northwest of Australia.
Area: Approximately 2.5 square miles (5.8 square kilometers).
Population: Uninhabited, with visits by conservationists and Australian government personnel.
Environmental Protection: The islands are a nature reserve, protecting diverse marine life and serving as important bird and turtle nesting sites.
List of External territories of Australia
Territory
Postal
ISO Code
Capital (largest settlement)
Population (Jun 2018)
Area (km²)
Seats in House of Representatives
Administrator
Shire President or Mayor
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
None (offshore anchorage)
0
199
-
None
None
Australian Antarctic Territory
AQ
None (Davis Station)
60
5,896,500
-
None
None
Christmas Island
WA
CX
Flying Fish Cove
1,938
135
(Part of Division of Lingiari)
Natasha Griggs
Gordon Thompson
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
WA
CC
West Island
547
14
(Part of Division of Lingiari)
Seri Wati Iku
Coral Sea Islands
None (Willis Island)
4
780,000
-
None
None
Heard Island and McDonald Islands
HM
None (Atlas Cove)
0
372
-
None
None
Norfolk Island
NSW
NF
Kingston
1,758
35
(Part of Division of Bean)
Eric Hutchinson
Robin Adams (mayor)
Geography
Australia's geography is as diverse as it is vast, spanning deserts, rainforests, mountain ranges, and extensive coastlines. This diversity is distributed across its six states and two territories, each contributing unique geographical features and environmental significance.
New South Wales (NSW), located on the southeastern coast, boasts a varied landscape that includes coastal plains, mountain ranges, and extensive river systems. Covering approximately 312,528 square miles (809,444 square kilometers), it is home to the Great Dividing Range, which runs parallel to the coast and includes the Snowy Mountains, where Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak, rises to 7,310 feet (2,228 meters). The state's major rivers include the Murray and the Darling, key components of the Murray-Darling Basin, and it has over 1,300 miles (2,100 kilometers) of coastline, featuring famous beaches like Bondi and Byron Bay.
Victoria, Australia's smallest mainland state, features a diverse range of geographical features within its 91,761 square miles (237,659 square kilometers). The Great Dividing Range extends into Victoria, creating alpine areas including the Victorian Alps, with Mount Bogong reaching 6,516 feet (1,986 meters) as the highest peak. The state's major rivers include the Murray, Yarra, and Goulburn, along with significant lakes such as Lake Eildon and Lake Hume. Victoria's coastline stretches about 1,200 miles (1,930 kilometers) and includes the famous Great Ocean Road.
Queensland is renowned for its tropical and subtropical climates, diverse landscapes, and extensive coastline, covering approximately 715,309 square miles (1,851,736 square kilometers). The Great Dividing Range also runs through Queensland, creating a variety of landscapes from mountains to plains. Mount Bartle Frere, at 5,321 feet (1,622 meters), is the state's highest point. Major rivers include the Fitzroy, Brisbane, and Barron Rivers, while Lake Eyre, Australia’s largest lake, lies partially within its borders.
South Australia is characterized by its arid and semi-arid climate, with significant wine regions and desert landscapes. Covering around 379,725 square miles (983,482 square kilometers), it includes the Flinders Ranges, with Mount Woodroffe being the highest peak at 4,708 feet (1,435 meters). The state's major rivers include the Murray, Torrens, and Onkaparinga, while Lake Eyre also extends into South Australia, contributing to its diverse aquatic ecosystems. The state's coastline stretches approximately 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers) and features the Spencer Gulf and the Great Australian Bight.
Western Australia, the largest state, spans approximately 1,021,478 square miles (2,645,615 square kilometers), featuring vast deserts, rugged mountains, and a long coastline. The state's highest peak is Mount Meharry at 4,111 feet (1,253 meters). Key rivers include the Swan, Ord, and Fitzroy Rivers. The coastline extends for about 7,900 miles (12,700 kilometers), encompassing the Ningaloo Reef and the Kimberley region, known for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Tasmania, an island state, is known for its rugged wilderness and heritage sites, covering about 26,410 square miles (68,401 square kilometers). Its highest peak is Mount Ossa at 5,305 feet (1,617 meters), located within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Major rivers include the Derwent, Tamar, and Gordon Rivers, with significant lakes such as Lake St Clair and the Great Lake. Tasmania's coastline, approximately 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) long, features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and historic sites.
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is home to the nation's capital, Canberra, and covers about 910 square miles (2,358 square kilometers). It is largely composed of hilly terrain with the Brindabella Ranges, where Mount Bimberi, the highest peak, reaches 6,276 feet (1,913 meters). The Murrumbidgee River flows through the territory, providing essential water resources. Canberra's design integrates natural landscapes with urban development, featuring extensive parks and reserves.
The Northern Territory is known for its remote landscapes, including national parks and Aboriginal heritage sites, covering approximately 548,092 square miles (1,421,121 square kilometers). Its highest peak is Mount Zeil at 4,954 feet (1,510 meters), located in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Major rivers include the Katherine, Daly, and Victoria Rivers. The territory's significant natural attractions include Kakadu National Park, Uluru, and the Katherine Gorge, drawing visitors from around the world.
History and Territorial Evolution of Australia
The history and territorial evolution of Australia is a fascinating journey that spans thousands of years, from its ancient Indigenous cultures to its development as a modern nation. This evolution is marked by significant events, territorial disputes, and legal milestones that have shaped the country’s current borders and governance structure. This content provides an in-depth look at this historical progression, highlighting key data, facts, and figures.
Indigenous History
Australia's history begins with its Indigenous peoples, who have inhabited the continent for over 65,000 years. These diverse groups developed rich cultures, languages, and knowledge systems deeply connected to the land. Archaeological evidence from sites like Lake Mungo and Kakadu National Park provides insights into their early lives, including complex social structures and sustainable practices.
European Exploration and Colonization
The first recorded European sighting of Australia was by Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon in 1606. Over the next 150 years, several European explorers, including the British navigator James Cook, mapped parts of the Australian coastline. Cook's 1770 voyage aboard the HMS Endeavour led to the British claim over the eastern coast, naming it New South Wales.
The First Fleet and Penal Colonies
In 1788, the First Fleet, comprising 11 ships carrying convicts, marines, and officials, arrived at Botany Bay. The fleet, under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip, established the first British colony at Sydney Cove. Over the following decades, additional penal colonies were established in Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania), Queensland, and Western Australia.
1788: Establishment of New South Wales, the first colony.
1803: Settlement in Van Diemen's Land.
1824: Establishment of the Moreton Bay penal colony (later Queensland).
1829: Foundation of the Swan River Colony (Western Australia).
Free Settlements and Expansion
Throughout the 19th century, free settlers began to outnumber convicts, leading to the growth of new settlements and exploration of the interior. This period saw the creation of new colonies and significant territorial expansions.
1836: South Australia was established as a free colony.
1851: Victoria was separated from New South Wales.
1859: Queensland became a separate colony.
Gold Rushes and Economic Growth
The discovery of gold in the 1850s in New South Wales and Victoria led to a massive influx of migrants and significant economic growth. The gold rushes transformed the Australian economy and society, leading to infrastructure development and the expansion of cities like Melbourne and Sydney.
Path to Federation
By the late 19th century, the six British colonies operated independently, each with its own government and laws. However, there was a growing movement towards unification to address common issues like defense, immigration, and trade. The key milestones on the path to federation include:
1891: The first National Australasian Convention, which drafted a constitution.
1897-1898: Constitutional conventions leading to the final draft of the constitution.
1900: The British Parliament passed the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act.
January 1, 1901: The Commonwealth of Australia was officially established, uniting the six colonies into a federation.
Post-Federation Territorial Adjustments
Following federation, Australia continued to refine its territorial boundaries and governance structures.
1911: The Northern Territory was transferred from South Australia to the Commonwealth.
1911: Establishment of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to house the national capital, Canberra.
1927: Canberra was inaugurated as the federal capital.
Modern Territorial Developments
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen further adjustments and developments in Australia's territorial governance:
1931: The Statute of Westminster granted legislative independence to Australia.
1947: Heard Island and McDonald Islands were transferred to Australian sovereignty.
1955: Australian Antarctic Territory defined, covering 42% of Antarctica.
1978: Self-government granted to the Northern Territory.
1988: Self-government granted to the ACT.
Indigenous Land Rights
A significant aspect of modern Australian territorial evolution involves the recognition of Indigenous land rights. Key milestones include:
1967: A national referendum resulting in the inclusion of Indigenous Australians in the census and the federal government’s power to make laws for them.
1992: The landmark Mabo decision by the High Court of Australia, recognizing native title and overturning the concept of terra nullius (land belonging to no one).
1993: The Native Title Act, which established a legal framework for Indigenous Australians to claim land rights.
Contemporary Australia
Today, Australia is composed of six states and two territories, each with its own government but united under the federal system. The states are New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania. The territories are the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory.
Population: As of 2021, Australia's population is approximately 25.7 million.
Area: The total land area is about 2.97 million square miles (7.7 million square kilometers).
Politics in Australian States and Territories
Australia’s political landscape is characterized by a federal system of government, which includes six states and two territories, each with its own political structure and responsibilities. This system is designed to allow each state and territory to manage its own affairs while adhering to the overarching framework of the Commonwealth of Australia. Here is an in-depth look at the political systems of Australian states and territories, highlighting key data, facts, and figures.
New South Wales (NSW)
New South Wales has the oldest and most populous state parliament in Australia, located in Sydney.
Legislative Structure: Bicameral, consisting of the Legislative Assembly (lower house) and the Legislative Council (upper house).
Major Political Parties: The Australian Labor Party (ALP) and the Liberal/National Coalition.
Premier: The head of government, typically the leader of the party with the majority in the Legislative Assembly.
Governor: The representative of the monarch in NSW, with a largely ceremonial role.
Recent Elections: The 2019 state election resulted in a victory for the Liberal/National Coalition, with Gladys Berejiklian becoming the Premier.
Victoria
Victoria is known for its vibrant political scene, with a strong tradition of both progressive and conservative politics.
Legislative Structure: Bicameral, consisting of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council.
Major Political Parties: The ALP and the Liberal/National Coalition.
Premier: The head of government, currently Daniel Andrews from the ALP.
Governor: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: In the 2018 state election, the ALP won a significant majority in the Legislative Assembly.
Queensland
Queensland has a unique unicameral system, meaning it has only one legislative chamber.
Legislative Structure: Unicameral, with the Legislative Assembly as the sole chamber.
Major Political Parties: The ALP and the Liberal National Party (LNP).
Premier: The head of government, currently Annastacia Palaszczuk from the ALP.
Governor: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: The 2020 state election saw the ALP secure a third consecutive term.
Western Australia
Western Australia features a mix of urban and regional political issues, with significant emphasis on resource management.
Legislative Structure: Bicameral, with the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council.
Major Political Parties: The ALP and the Liberal Party.
Premier: The head of government, currently Mark McGowan from the ALP.
Governor: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: The 2021 state election resulted in a landslide victory for the ALP.
South Australia
South Australia has a history of social reform and innovation in its political landscape.
Legislative Structure: Bicameral, with the House of Assembly and the Legislative Council.
Major Political Parties: The ALP and the Liberal Party.
Premier: The head of government, currently Steven Marshall from the Liberal Party.
Governor: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: The 2018 state election resulted in a victory for the Liberal Party.
Tasmania
Tasmania is unique due to its proportional representation system in the lower house, promoting a multi-party political environment.
Legislative Structure: Bicameral, with the House of Assembly and the Legislative Council.
Major Political Parties: The ALP, the Liberal Party, and the Tasmanian Greens.
Premier: The head of government, currently Peter Gutwein from the Liberal Party.
Governor: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: The 2021 state election saw the Liberal Party win a third consecutive term.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
The Australian Capital Territory has a relatively simple political system compared to the states, with a single legislative chamber.
Legislative Structure: Unicameral, with the Legislative Assembly.
Major Political Parties: The ALP, the Liberal Party, and the ACT Greens.
Chief Minister: The head of government, currently Andrew Barr from the ALP.
Recent Elections: The 2020 territory election resulted in a coalition government of the ALP and the ACT Greens.
Northern Territory
The Northern Territory combines elements of state and territory governance, reflecting its unique status.
Legislative Structure: Unicameral, with the Legislative Assembly.
Major Political Parties: The ALP and the Country Liberal Party (CLP).
Chief Minister: The head of government, currently Michael Gunner from the ALP.
Administrator: The ceremonial representative of the monarch.
Recent Elections: The 2020 territory election saw the ALP retain government.
Federal Influence and Coordination
Australia's federal system ensures coordination between the states and territories and the national government. The Council of Australian Governments (COAG), recently replaced by the National Cabinet, serves as a forum for discussion and policy coordination across different levels of government. This structure helps manage areas of shared responsibility, such as health, education, and infrastructure.
