Natural resources of Australia. Why do tourists choose Australia? What natural resources do the Australian islands have?

The area of ​​Australia occupies 7.7 million km2, and it is located on the mainland of the same name, Tasmania and many small islands. For a long period of time, the state developed exclusively in an agricultural direction, until in the mid-19th century alluvial gold (gold deposits brought by rivers and streams) was discovered there, causing several gold rushes and laying the foundation for modern demographic patterns in Australia.

In the post-war period, geology rendered invaluable service to the country with the continuous production of mineral deposits, including gold, bauxite, iron and manganese, as well as opals, sapphires and other precious stones, which became the impetus for the development of the industry of the state.

Coal

Australia has an estimated 24 billion tonnes of coal reserves, more than a quarter of which (7 billion tonnes) is anthracite or black coal, located in the Sydney Basin of New South Wales and Queensland. Lignite coal is suitable for power generation in Victoria. Coal reserves fully satisfy the needs of the Australian domestic market, and allow the export of surplus mined raw materials.

Natural gas

Natural gas deposits are widespread throughout the country and currently supply the majority of Australia's domestic needs. There are commercial gas fields in every state and pipelines connecting these fields to major cities. Within three years, Australian natural gas production increased almost 14-fold from 258 million m3 in 1969, the first year of production, to 3.3 billion m3 in 1972. Overall, Australia has trillions of tonnes of estimated natural gas reserves spread across the continent.

Oil

Most of Australia's oil production is aimed at meeting its own needs. Oil was first discovered in southern Queensland near Mooney. Australian oil production currently stands at about 25 million barrels per year and is based on fields in northwestern Australia near Barrow Island, Mereeni and the Bass Strait subsurface. The Balrow, Mereeni and Bass Strait deposits are simultaneously targets for natural gas production.

Uranium ore

Australia has rich deposits of uranium ore, which are enriched for use as fuel for nuclear power. Western Queensland, near Mount Isa and Cloncurry, contains three billion tonnes of uranium ore reserves. There are also deposits in Arnhem Land, in far northern Australia, as well as in Queensland and Victoria.

Iron ore

Most of Australia's significant iron ore reserves are located in the western part of Australia in and around Hammersley. The state has billions of tonnes of iron ore reserves, exporting magnetite iron from mines in Tasmania and Japan, while extracting ore from older sources on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula and the Coolanyabing region of southern Western Australia.

The Western Australian Shield is rich in nickel deposits, which were first discovered at Kambalda near Kalgoorlie in southwestern Australia in 1964. Other nickel deposits have been discovered in old gold mining areas in Western Australia. Small deposits of platinum and palladium were discovered nearby.

Zinc

The state is also extremely rich in zinc reserves, the main sources of which are Mount Isa, Mount Mat and Mount Morgan in Queensland. Large reserves of bauxite (aluminum ore), lead and zinc are concentrated in the northern part.

Gold

Australian gold production, which was substantial at the beginning of the century, has declined from peak production of four million ounces in 1904 to several hundred thousand. Most of the gold is mined from the Kalgoorlie-Norseman region in Western Australia.

The continent is also famous for its gemstones, especially white and black opals from South Australia and western New South Wales. Sapphire and topaz deposits have been developed in Queensland and the New England region of north-eastern New South Wales.

What do we know about Australia? Of course, the first associations with this country are numerous kangaroos jumping across incredible expanses, crocodiles, surfing, the Sydney Opera House, the endless ocean, heat and aborigines.

In fact, when deciding to visit Australia, we must not forget that this is the only state on our “Blue Planet” that occupies an entire continent! Of course, the continent is smaller than Eurasia, but still! So trying to see the whole of Australia in a week is naive, to say the least. Walking around Sydney alone will take several days, but the Great Barrier Reef can be explored for months and never cease to be amazed.

First of all, we advise you to decide what interests you more - modern Australian cities or the nature of the Green Continent? In the first case, you will find Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, and in the second - remote corners, islands, reefs, mountains, rivers and lakes.

Let us remind you that in the Southern Hemisphere everything is the other way around and the Australian New Year- a very hot holiday that locals prefer to spend on the beaches. In any case, whenever you come to Australia, we advise you to take a ride along the Great Ocean Road with its “12 Apostles”, visit one of the country’s many national parks, see the continent’s most beautiful bridge, the Harbor Bridge, and also visit Fraser Island.

The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in Australia?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.

Australia's largest attraction. There is something for everyone here. Want to watch sharks? To the Great Barrier Reef! Just lie on the cleanest beach? Great, there's enough room for everyone! Rent an expensive hotel room right on the shore? There are also such offers! Have you always wanted to learn diving? Best place You just can't find one for this. The Great Barrier Reef is amazingly diverse, attracting both tourists and scientists.

This is real business card countries. Even those who have never heard anything about Australian attractions have certainly seen this building against the backdrop of Sydney Bay on postcards and travel brochures. A shell building, a structure that fits perfectly into the landscape, a masterpiece of architectural thought - no matter how the Sydney Opera House is called.

This picturesque group of limestone cliffs is the most frequently visited attraction located on the famous Great Ocean Road in Victoria. A tourist center was even built around the Twelve Apostles. Helicopter rides over the cliffs are popular among travelers. By the way, there are not 12 “apostles”, but eight - the ninth rock collapsed in 2005, unable to withstand the onslaught of waves.

This is a sacred place for the Australian Aborigines, the rock, towering above the rest of the area, is brick red in color. Uluru is famous for its ancient rock art and caves. Conveniently, the resort town of Yulara and the airport are located nearby, so getting to this amazing attraction is convenient and easy.

These rocks are not actually blue - this effect is given by the bluish fumes from the eucalyptus forests covering them. Part of this area, stretching west from the Sydney city limits, is recognized as a UNESCO site and a National Park. Tourists are advised to start exploring the Blue Mountains from the town of Katoomba, near which there are waterfalls, caves and other interesting places.

This is Sydney's largest bridge and one of the largest steel arch bridges on the planet. A local landmark, a decoration of the city landscape and a place of attraction for thousands of tourists. Particularly popular are walks along the side arch to the top of the bridge, from where an amazing view of the metropolis opens. To climb, you will need the help of an instructor and a special suit with insurance.

The tallest building in the city cannot fail to attract attention. Sydney Tower has nothing to do with TV broadcasts. There are shops, restaurants and other entertainment facilities here. The most thrilling experience will come from visiting the retractable observation platform, which rises above Sydney to a height of 268 meters.

In fact, this national park was named not after the birds, but in honor of the Aboriginal tribe. Kakadu Park attracts tourists with its amazing landscapes and the opportunity to see rare animals, birds and reptiles. Archaeologists are especially interested in two caves where rock paintings dating back about 18 thousand years were found.

Visiting Australia and not driving along the most picturesque road in the world is a big omission! This is 243 kilometers that stretch along the ocean coast in Victoria. There is also a hiking trail along the road. In addition to the Twelve Apostles, there are many interesting things to see along the Great Ocean Road, such as the Lock Ard Ridge and Grotto.

The easternmost point of the Green Continent, a cape with stunning views of the ocean. Cape Byron, so named by the famous traveler James Cook, is decorated with a snow-white lighthouse that saved many sailors from shipwreck. The area is very beautiful and therefore attracts many tourists.

This beach is located just 10 kilometers from the center of Sydney and attracts tens of thousands of people every year. Here they jog, spend interesting competitions and running, just sunbathing, swimming and surfing. A wide strip of white sand and clear ocean waves make Bondi Beach one of the most beautiful on the planet.

Few people now remember that at one time numerous convicts were exiled to Australia. One of the most terrible places of detention was the Port Arthur prison, located in Tasmania. The building has been perfectly preserved, along with the church and chapel, so that it has become a real museum, perfectly demonstrating the conditions in which convicts lived.

Today, of course, the British Queen does not live in this Gothic building, but the truly royal chic is perfectly preserved. The house is located in the business district of Sydney and is a popular, quite modern shopping center. You can visit the Queen Victoria House for two reasons - admire its rich decoration and go shopping.

This is Melbourne's largest Anglican Cathedral, a majestic building where you can come not only to pray, but also to admire the unique decoration and beautiful architecture. One of the most prominent buildings in the city, it is famous for its organ, which is considered the largest of all those built in the 19th century.

A unique natural wonder located in the northwestern part of Australia. Horizontal waterfalls occur only during sufficiently long periods of time. tidal currents when powerful water flows pass through narrow settlements between picturesque rocks. The spectacle is amazing and bewitching, created due to the difference in the levels of water flows.

At least 140 thousand tourists come every year to take a look at this natural miracle. Looking at this rock, it really seems that a wave from the ocean somehow ended up in the middle of the land and froze forever. Scientists consider the Stone Wave to be a unique rock formation created by nature from granite, just think about it - 60 million years ago!

Have you watched TV shows about animals with the host Stephen Irwin, the famous crocodile hunter? We're sure you watched it! The Australian Zoo in Queensland is associated with his name and is now run by Irvine's widow. The zoo has created surprisingly comfortable conditions not only for rare animals, but also for visitors who have something to be surprised and happy about during their visit.

This is probably the most unusual and picturesque state of Australia, located on the island of the same name, in the very south of our planet. Then there is only Antarctica and the ocean. Among tourists, Tasmania is famous for the annual regatta from Sydney to Hobart, Tasmania's main city, as well as races that attract spectators from all over the world. The nature of the island is also unique.

The Aborigines, several thousand of whom lived on this island before the colonization of Australia, simply called it “Paradise”. And this is not surprising. It is incredibly beautiful here, nature has remained virtually untouched and the island, located off the eastern coast of the continent, continues to attract tourists. True, it was not possible to preserve untouched the amazing “hanging” freshwater lakes for which Fraser is famous - there are too many people who want to see such exotic things.

This is a sight that millions of tourists cannot pass by. In fact, thousands of little penguins marching en masse into the ocean waves and returning at sunset, almost at the same time every day - what could be more interesting! Usually special tours are organized to Phillip Island, during which they also offer to visit a penguin show and the Koala Sanctuary.

Rocks "Twelve Apostles"

origin of name

Even ancient geographers were convinced of the existence of a hypothetical land in the Southern Hemisphere, which on the maps of those times was designated as Terra Australis Incognita - “unknown southern land.” This name was first put on the map in the 2nd century by Ptolemy of Alexandria, who assumed that Africa in the south passes into an as yet undiscovered continent.

The Dutch sailors, who were the first to reach this land, gave it the name “New Holland”. In 1814, the English navigator Matthew Flinders was the first European to circumnavigate the continent and suggested calling it Terra Australis, “as it would be more pleasant to the ear.” But his proposal was not immediately accepted, and only in 1817, the governor of the state of South Wales, Lachlan Macquarie, began to use the name “Australia” in official documents and invited the Colonial Office of the British Empire to accept, which was done in 1824.

Big cities

Flora and fauna

An even warm climate, a variety of natural conditions in different parts continent and the long-term isolation of the mainland contributed to the fact that the evolutionary processes of Australia did not proceed as rapidly as on other continents. Thanks to this, they have survived to this day. amazing plants and animals long extinct on other continents. Of the 12 thousand species of vegetation, more than 9 thousand are endemic, not found anywhere else in the world. Due to the continent's climate for the most part arid, the plants here are dry-loving, among them the most famous are eucalyptus and bottle tree. The tropical forests of the north are rich in umbrella acacias, huge eucalyptus trees (up to a hundred meters in height!), bamboo, different types ficus and palm trees. Eastern subtropical evergreen forests amaze with huge twenty-meter ferns and tree-like horsetail.

Unique animals live in the vastness of Australia; not only do they not exist anywhere else on the planet, they simply cannot survive anywhere else, as they feed on plants that grow only here. Almost 90% of the continent's fauna are endemic. Of the 235 species of mammals, half are marsupials. On the mainland, “living fossils” have survived to this day - the platypus and the echidna. Australia is the only continent where there are no ungulates or monkeys. There are two surviving carnivores here - the Tasmanian devil, a carnivorous marsupial, and the dingo. One of the symbols of Australia, the Tasmanian devil, used to live throughout the mainland, but humans and dingoes pushed it out to Tasmania.

The bird world of Australia is extremely rich, numbering 720 species of birds, almost half of which are endemic. Emu ostriches, cockatoos, cassowaries, black swans, honey sucking birds, birds of paradise, lyrebirds are recognized symbols of the continent.

There are no predators here, but there are many other dangerous representatives of the animal world - in Australia there are 65 species of poisonous snakes. If you see a sign prohibiting swimming, do not ignore the warning - deadly jellyfish and sharks are found in coastal waters. Blue-ringed octopuses are among the most poisonous animals on the planet.

The appearance of man did not have the best effect on flora and fauna; many of their unique representatives were irretrievably destroyed. But now, thanks to the efforts of the government, the situation is changing dramatically - compliance with protection laws is strictly controlled environment. Many nature conservation parks and reserves have been created. It was possible to restore some species of animals and plants that were on the verge of extinction. National parks have given impetus to the development of tourism. In many protected areas, interesting tourist routes have been created that allow you to touch the past of the planet and observe life with your own eyes. wildlife Australia.

Geographical features

Australia ranks last among continents in terms of area, which is 7.7 million square kilometers. Australia has no borders with any state. The continent's shores are washed by the seas of the Indian and Pacific oceans.

Australia is the only continent without glaciers or volcanoes. Most of the country's territory is occupied by deserts and semi-deserts, there are fertile lands in the east and southwest, and in the north there are woodlands, savannas and jungles of the Arnhem Land Peninsula.

The most fertile areas of the country are the coastal ones. Thanks to the moist sea winds carrying precipitation, they receive enough water for vegetation; there are alpine meadows and tropical jungles.

The Great Barrier Reef, a unique attraction of Australia, stretches along the northeastern coast for 2000 kilometers. Many of the reef islands have become luxury resorts.

There are mountains on the mainland, but there are few of them, only 5% of the entire territory, and the smaller half of them are above 1000 meters. In the mountain range of the Great Dividing Range, rising to east coast, is the highest point of the continent - Cape Kosciuszko with a height of 2228 meters.

Australia's main rivers flow through the southeast of the country. Large rivers only two - Murray, 2.5 thousand kilometers long, and Darling, whose length is no more than 2000 kilometers. The Murray is a deeper river that maintains a constant flow, while the Darling dries up during the hot season. The island of Tasmania boasts an abundance of deep and fast rivers.

The south of Australia is replete with salt lakes that have no drainage and fill only during the rainy season. The largest lake is Eyre with an area of ​​9.5 thousand square kilometers. Eyre is 16 meters below sea level and is the lowest point on the mainland.

Story

The ancestors of the aborigines, immigrants from the island of New Guinea, began to populate the mainland many thousands of years ago. The idyllic existence of the indigenous people was first disrupted in the 17th century by Dutch explorers. Europeans landed in the north of the continent and discovered a large nearby island, which they named Tasmania after the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman.

Almost a hundred years later, in 1770, James Cook arrived here. He explored the eastern lands of the mainland, named them New South Wales and declared them the property of Britain. A decade later, Europeans began to actively settle new lands.

The first inhabitants of the continent were criminals. In those days, England evicted its convicts to North America, but this punishment had to be stopped with the beginning of the War of Independence in the United States.

The English government decided to use the very opportunely discovered new lands and developed a plan to send convicts to New South Wales. In January 1788, the first flotilla reached the distant mainland. There were 1,373 people on board the 11 ships, 700 of them were criminals. Soon the new arrivals founded a settlement, which later became the city of Sydney. And now on January 26, residents of the Green Continent celebrate Australia Day.

Over the next 80 years, another 160,000 criminals were sent to Australia. And in the second half of the 19th century, gold was found on the continent, a gold rush began, and more than 40 thousand Chinese emigrants came here in search of fortune.

Since World War II, the country has welcomed thousands of migrants from 200 countries, making Australia one of the most diverse countries in the world.

State structure. Population

Australia is a federal parliamentary state. Formally, the head of state is Queen Elizabeth II of England, but executive power is concentrated in the hands of the prime minister.

The Federation consists of 6 states:

• New South Wales, a hub for cultural, entertainment and sporting events.
• Western Australia, which occupies almost a third of the continent and consists almost entirely of deserts. Three-quarters of the country's gold is mined here and one-fifth of the world's aluminum is produced. The state has the highest average income, but also the largest population shortage due to its hot climate. The size of the state is comparable to Western Europe.
• Queensland, named after Queen Victoria, is famous for its banana plantations and the Great Barrier Reef.
• Victoria, the smallest state with developed skiing. The history and development of the state is closely connected with the gold rush.
• South Australia is famous for its wine and the fact that this state has never accepted prisoners.
• Tasmania, almost half the state is protected World Heritage Sites.

In addition to the states, the Commonwealth of Australia includes two mainland territories - the Northern and Capital Territories. And also several small areas. Half of the Northern Territory's land is owned by Aboriginal people and is the country's most sparsely populated and least urbanized region. The capital territory at one time separated from South Wales, and Canberra, the capital of Australia, was built here in 1927.

Australia is a country with a highly developed economy, the largest exporter of beef and wool, and also exports large quantities of wheat, lamb, and minerals. Accordingly, the standard of living of the population is consistently high.

The country ranks 50th in the world in terms of population. About 24 million people live in Australia, of which 230 thousand are indigenous people. Aboriginal people received their legal rights only in the 60s of the last century and they live mainly in reserves and national parks of Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

According to the Australian Constitution, no religion is authorized by law or receives financial support from the state. Australians are free to practice any religion and be free of any creed.

Population densities vary. If up to 80% of the population is concentrated in cities, then in other areas the density may be less than one person per square kilometer. This is explained by the fact that more than half of the country’s territory is unsuitable for human habitation due to the extremely hot climate.

Australians are friendly and open people; their temperament mixes the features of Puritan Great Britain with the cheerful character of people from America. Local residents prefer a casual style in casual clothing; they are friendly and smiling with foreigners.

Holidays

• January 1 - New Year.
• January 26 is Australia Day.
• Easter Monday.
• April 25 - Anzac Day (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps Day).
• May 1 - Labor Day.
• July 14 is the Queen's birthday.
• December 25 - Christmas.
• December 27 is Boxing Day.

Helpful information

The national currency is the Australian dollar. Along with paper money, the world's first plastic money is in use here. It is more profitable to exchange currencies in banks; it is important to remember that they are closed on weekends.

From the Green Continent, tourists bring crocodile leather products, the famous Australian ugg boots, and original aboriginal crafts - boomerangs, spears, ritual masks. You can buy opals inexpensively here. Various souvenirs made from eucalyptus are very popular among travelers. Many people buy clothes made from unique merino wool. If you buy goods worth more than $300, you will get back 9.1% of the amount spent, you just need to keep your receipt.

You cannot import food, weapons, some medicines, products of animal and plant origin, wood products and even soil on the soles. You can import duty-free goods worth no more than $900, 50 cigarettes and 1 liter of alcohol. At the airport of arrival, you and your luggage will be disinfected with a special product.

Remember - in Australia there is spitting in the streets, smoking in in public places and driving while intoxicated are punishable by a heavy fine.

Driving in Australia is on the left, so tourists need to be extremely careful. Due to the long distances, the most popular transport in the country is airplanes.

Traveling by bus is also in demand in the country.

Rail transport is almost undeveloped due to the difficulties of laying a railway.

You can rent a car if you have an international license, have more than 1 year of driving experience, and are over 21 years old and under 75 years old. A deposit will be required.

If you go deep into the continent, stock up on food, water, fuel and be sure to take a satellite phone with you, since mobile communications do not work everywhere.

Be extremely careful in nature - there are many poisonous snakes and insects around, brush up on the rules of first aid for bites of poisonous animals.

The mains voltage is 240/250 Volts; adapters will be needed for Asian and European devices.

Australia has 3 time zones. Time in Canberra is 7 hours ahead of Moscow.

A quarter of its inhabitants were born outside of Australia.

Australia is the most law-abiding country in the world, although the ancestors of many of its citizens are deported criminals.

Calendar low prices for flights to Australia

Modern Australia may have evolved from a British prison colony, but it has now become one of the world's top tourist destinations. Tourists to Australia will enjoy amazing cosmopolitan cities, fantastic weather, famous beautiful coastlines, and friendly locals. Tourism in Australia will appeal to all tourists.

Both a continent and a country, Australia is the world's sixth largest country by area and, perhaps unsurprisingly, has an abundance of natural attractions that are begging to be explored. From the monolithic rock of Uluru, to the wild, untamed and merciless Outback, to the colorful wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, located just off Queensland's sun-drenched Gold Coast, Australia offers unique, unforgettable destinations. Those who prefer active holidays will enjoy the "outdoor culture", and the great variety in active activities and sports, including swimming, diving, snorkeling, surfing, hiking, mountain biking, and even skiing on skis - and all this is easily accessible. In Australia, all conditions have been created for tourism.

For those who prefer to spend their holidays and weekends in an urban environment, Australian cities will definitely not disappoint. Australia's clean, cosmopolitan, young urban centers (such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne) are world class cities. Australia's iconic cultural attractions include the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge, the Australian Museum and the Museum of Old and New Art. Australia also boasts an impressive and fast-growing restaurant culture, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of foodies.

Whether you're planning on sightseeing in Australia, or you're planning on spending time relaxing on the stunning beaches and sampling the local beer (of which there are many brands), you're sure to have a great time in this country.

Best time to visit Australia

Thanks to Australia's mild and temperate climate, there is simply no bad time to visit this country - even in midwinter (June) temperatures regularly rise to 20°C. However, it is best to visit Australia in the summer (from December to March), since at this time not only is the weather much warmer and sunnier, but at this time there are also more festivals and holidays, and there is a more cheerful atmosphere on the streets.

Basic information about the country

Time in Australia

Electricity in Australia

Mains voltage in Australia is 240/250 volts, 50 Hz. Three-pin flat plugs are used, but these are different from those used in most other countries, so an adapter is recommended.

Sockets in Australia, plugs in Australia

Languages

The official language of Australia is English.

Health, vaccinations for travel to Australia

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving in Australia over one year of age and having spent one day or more in the last six days in a yellow fever-infected country. No other vaccinations or medications are required for most trips to Australia, but it is strongly recommended that you take repellent with you due to the risk of contracting mosquito- and sandfly-borne diseases. Sunburn is another health hazard and tourists are advised to take precautions necessary measures. Medical care in the country is excellent but can be expensive, so tourists should have good insurance.

Tipping in Australia

There is no compulsory tipping in restaurants in Australia, as in any other place, although recently in expensive ones in large cities the practice of leaving a little money for good service has become increasingly common.

Safety in Australia

Crime rates in Australia are low; however, visitors to the country should be aware that tourists may be the target of petty criminals. Be careful with your personal belongings and documents, especially in popular tourist destinations such as the Gold Coast. Between November and April, tropical cyclones can occur in some places in Australia, usually Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory. There is a high risk of bushfires in the summer, especially in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and the Capital Territory. During the summer months, usually between October and May, sea wasps, commonly called box jellyfish, whose stings are very dangerous and can be fatal, appear in shallow coastal waters in northern Australia and Queensland. Tourists should pay attention to signs and inscriptions on beaches, and follow the instructions of local lifeguards.

Customs of Australia, traditions of Australia

In most social and business situations, an informal attitude prevails, in dress and behavior. Sports, especially rugby and cricket, have been elevated almost to the level of religion.

Business in Australia, entrepreneurship in Australia

Those doing business in Australia will likely find that the country's friendly yet professional corporate atmosphere provides them with excellent opportunities to develop their careers. The business culture in Australia is somewhat hybrid, incorporating the trappings of British formality and conservatism, the egalitarian spirit of the Scandinavian countries, and the dynamic, innovative approach to business typically thought of as American in origin, all topped off with a characteristically southern hemisphere warmth and friendliness. The approach to management in Australia is deliberative, pragmatic, and strictly non-hierarchical. Those who hold power are treated with respect based on their personal and interpersonal qualities, and Not only because they happened to be bosses.

Business etiquette in Australia further reflects this egalitarian spirit. At first, address others by position or title, although you will almost certainly be told to give it up so that you can address your colleagues simply by their first names. Maintain eye contact when communicating with your partners, as this is considered a sign of straightforwardness and trustworthiness - qualities that Australian businessmen prefer over others - flashiness, self-aggrandizement, or empty promises. Business meetings in Australia need to be booked a week in advance and then confirmed a few days in advance.

Be punctual, as lateness may be perceived as a sign of frivolity or indifference. Business meetings in Australia are not perceived as a place where directions are given and an agenda is set, but rather they are perceived as open forums where different thoughts and ideas are challenged and discussed. Moreover, by over-preparing for a meeting or meeting, you may be thought of as an assertive individualist, as if you want to influence others to accept your point of view on the issue being discussed. Business dress codes in Australia remain surprisingly traditional - dark suits and ties for men, and business suits with trousers or a skirt for women. Avoid loud jewelry and accessories as they can make you look arrogant and unprofessional to an Australian. The official language for business communication in Australia is English, and business hours in the country typically run from 8:30 (or 9:00) am to 5 (or 5:30) pm, Monday to Friday.

Communications in Australia

The international access code for Australia is +61. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the desired country code. The area code for both Canberra and Sydney is (0)2. Cellular operators use GSM networks, and mobile phones can be rented. Internet cafes are widespread.

Cash, money, credit cards in Australia

Australian money, what is the currency in Australia

Credit cards in Australia

Basic ones accepted credit cards. Use of cards may be limited in small towns and in outback regions.

ATMs in Australia

ATMs in Australia are located in all major cities. However, access to ATMs in small towns and outback regions may be limited or non-existent.

Traveler's checks in Australia

Traveler's checks are widely accepted in major currencies at banks and major hotels. However, some banks may charge a fee for cashing traveler's checks. To avoid additional costs due to exchange rates, tourists are advised to take traveler's checks issued in major world currencies.

Bank opening hours in Australia

From Monday to Thursday, from 09:30 to 16:00, on Friday from 09:30 to 17:00. These hours may vary slightly by country.

Currency restrictions in Australia

The import and export of local and foreign currency is not limited. Amounts exceeding €10,000 or its equivalent must be declared.

Currency exchange in Australia

Currency exchange is available for all inbound and outbound flights at all international airports in Australia. In international hotels, guests can exchange major world currencies. It is recommended to change money at the airport or in city banks.

Duty-free in Australia, duty-free in Australia

The following goods can be imported into Australia by persons over 17 years of age without having to pay duty:

• 50 cigarettes or 50 gr. tobacco or cigars;
• 2.25 l. alcoholic drinks;
• personal items that you have owned for at least 12 months;
• other items valued at AUD 900 ($AUD 450 if under 18 years of age).

Prohibited goods for import into Australia

The country has very strict rules prohibiting the import medicines over the counter, weapons, wildlife, pets, food (including meat, chicken and dairy products, plants or plant parts (including fruits, nuts, and seeds), animal products (including wool, leather, and eggs), and any equipment used with domestic animals), and other potential sources of disease and epidemic (such as vaccines or viruses). There are serious penalties for drug trafficking.

For further information on customs legislation, please contact Australian Customs and Border Protection (www.customs.gov.au). Customs information booklets can be obtained from the Australian High Commission, or from the embassy.

Prohibited goods for export from Australia

The export of protected wildlife and related products is strictly controlled, including the export of coral, turtle shells, snake or reptile skin, orchids, caviar, ivory products, hunting trophies, and traditional medicines.

If you plan to export any heritage goods, including works of art, stamps, coins, archaeological objects, minerals and specimens, you will need to apply for a special permit.

The export of animals and plants native to Australia is either prohibited or restricted.

Weapons, pornography, and drugs are also prohibited.

Huge modern megacities, picturesque beaches, the steepest railway descents, a real UFO capital - this and much more attracts tourists from all over the world to Australia.

All the interesting places in Australia that are undoubtedly worth visiting for every visitor to Australia cannot be reduced to a ten-place rating. Therefore, below are just some of the attractions that most attract tourists.

Great Barrier Reef

It is the most beautiful coral reef in the world.

The Barrier Reef is a true ecosystem with a rich fauna and flora, consisting of three thousand coral reefs and covering more than 300 kilometers of area along the Australian coast of Queensland.

Cape Byron

Cape is the easternmost point of the continent and is considered one of the most beautiful places in all of Australia.

The real calling card of the cape is the snow-white lighthouse, built in 1901.

There is an observation deck here that offers an incredible, breathtaking view of the surrounding area.

From the lighthouse you can observe the life of dolphins, whales and sharks that often visit these places.

Cockington Green Gardens

The park in Canberra is a real world in miniature. Here you can see tiny towns and villages, made in different styles.

Small palaces, mills, residential buildings, people, horses - all this completely imitates life in real Mediterranean towns.

The 12 Apostles of Victoria and the Great Ocean Road leave a noticeable impression on any traveler.

Victoria's Apostles are 12 huge limestone rocks, jutting straight out of the sea.

The amazing coastline is also home to beautiful grottoes, caves and rocks.

Red Rock Ayers Rock

It rises in the middle of the desert in central Australia.

Fraser Island

This island is famous for its white sandy beaches, tropical forests, pristine lakes and amazing dunes.

The UNESCO World Heritage Island has some interesting Australian animals, such as the wild Dingo dogs that roam freely around the island.

Sydney Harbor

The harbor has a coastline length of 240 km.

Many tourists begin their acquaintance with the sights of Australia here, admiring the numerous gardens and parks.

It also offers views of world-famous landmarks such as the Harbor Bridge and the extraordinary Sydney Opera House.

Phillip Island

The island is one of the most beautiful Australian islands with beautiful beaches, located on an area of ​​one hundred hectares.

Blue Mountains Park

Blue Mountains National Park is famous for its spectacular natural beauty - lakes, waterfalls, steep cliffs and rainforests.

Pink salt lakes

The reservoirs are considered one of the most amazing and unusual natural wonders of Australia.

The unusual color of the lakes is due to the algae growing in them.

Largest cities in Australia

The largest metropolitan areas in Australia are Melbourne and Brisbane, each of which undoubtedly deserves attention.

Sydney

Sydney, where more than 4 million people live, harmoniously combines ultra-modern skyscrapers and ancient buildings, quiet parks and lively beaches.

The Sydney Tower, Sydney Aquarium, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney Harbor and many other attractions of the city are the national pride of Australians and certainly deserve attention.

Melbourne

Guests are attracted by numerous boutiques and shops, cafes and souvenir shops.

You can take the tram to the suburb of St Kilda, and a walk along the Yarra River will also be interesting.

The Port Phillip Bay coastline has excellent beaches, and the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Mountains famous wineries are located.

Federation Square, the Melbourne Museum located in Carlton Gardens and Australia's famous Eureka skyscraper are also popular attractions in the city.

Brisbane

Also deserves the attention of tourists Brisbane city, in the vicinity of which there are numerous nature reserves and zoos.

Brisbane, with its population of one million, is considered the third largest city on the continent.

The former provincial town is considered today one of the most attractive and promising places to live in the country.

Its population is growing at a tremendous pace. In terms of the number of high-rises and skyscrapers, Brisbane can compete even with New York.

Australia surprises guests not only with its natural beauty and picturesque places, but also many interesting customs and traditions:

• all adult Australians are required to turn out to vote, otherwise local residents face a fine;
• locals almost never leave tips;
• Canberra was declared the capital of Australia, as two cities, Sydney and Melbourne, claimed it. As a result, the Australians compromised and the capital was located between competing cities;

• Kangaroo meat is sold in Australian supermarkets and offered to restaurants, considered a healthy alternative to beef or lamb, since the fat content in kangaroo meat is no more than 1-2%;
• Despite the fact that most travelers associate kangaroo country with sun, seaside resorts and beaches, the Australian Alps have more snow than the rest of the country in winter;
• the Great Barrier Reef has its own mailbox, in which tourists can put a postcard with views of the reef addressed to friends;
• Australians are one of the most gambling nations.

According to statistics, about 85% of local residents gamble for money at least occasionally.

• the continent is home to the most poisonous snake on the planet– coastal taipan;
• There are many emigrants living in the country. Every fourth inhabitant of the continent, according to statistics, was born outside its territorial borders;
• the first Australian police unit consisted of only 12 people, and all the police were selected from prisoners who had distinguished themselves with good behavior;
• as statistics show, the population of Australia is considered the most law-abiding in the world;
• Australian The football team has the greatest victory: In 2001, she beat American Samoa with a unique score of 31:0.

Summarizing the above, it becomes quite obvious that Australia is one of the most interesting places on the planet, which confidently outstrips most countries in the world in terms of the number of its attractions.

This continent will never cease to attract numerous travelers with its natural and excursion diversity and original traditions.