For at least 40,000 years before the first British settlement in the late 18th century, Australia was inhabited by indigenous Australians, from approximately 250 language groups.
After the European discovery of the continent by Dutch explorers in 1606, Australia's eastern half was claimed by Great Britain in 1770 and from 26 January 1788 was settled by penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales.
As the population grew the continent was explored and an additional five self-governing crown colonies were established. Some ventured inland in search of pastures to raise stock, and some tried their hand at mineral exploration. Australia turned out to be one of the most resource-rich nations on earth, soon gaining a reputation for the quality of diamonds, emeralds, gold, silver, industrial minerals and rare earths found here.
Due to poor water supplies, most of the population opted to stay close to the coast, and still the coastline is home to most Australians.
Considering the small percentage of habitable land on the continent, it is conceivable that Australians are the most urbanised people int he world. Most problems arose due to the lack of forethought in colonising the nation.
Settlers relied on using European standards that were inappropriate for the nutrient poor soil.
Combined with the ringbarking of trees and the over ambitious clearing practices, lead to soil salinity and erosion problems. Sheep and cattle changed the vegetation on which they grazed. They were the first hoofed mammals in Australia, and native vegetation had not evolved in such a way to endure them. They also ate different vegetation to that of native animals, therefore, changing the composition of native pastures.
The release of rabbits and foxes by early Europeans for hunting in Victoria caused devastating effects across Australia, with the destruction of plant life and the consumption of small native animals. These are only an example of the destructive forces that early Europeans introduced to the continent. The effects are still being discovered. Introduced plants were often left to grow unchecked, domestic pets were abandoned and they turned feral, pack animals such as donkeys, camels, etc were let loose to run free when no longer required. Also was the introduction of many pests and diseases that neither the land of the first inhabitants were equipped to deal with.
Australia is a constitutional monarchy with a federal division of powers. It uses a parliamentary system of government with Queen Elizabeth II at its apex as the Queen of Australia, a role that is distinct from her position as monarch of the other Commonwealth realms. The Queen resides in the United Kingdom, and she is represented by her viceroys in Australia (the Governor-General at the federal level and by the Governors at the state level). The final constitutional ties between Australia and the UK were severed with the passing of the Australia Act 1986, ending any British role in the government of the Australian States, and closing the option of judicial appeals to the Privy Council in London.
At the moment there is an exciting future in women's football in Australia, and how it is being fostered among juniors through the AFLW (Australian Football League Women's) Junior Development program.
Every year there is a wide range of free events, info sessions, an array of open gardens, and a host of market stalls.
Indulge in some of the best local country produce and a number of wineries offering great wine tasting and cellar door wine tour experiences.
Australians are famous for their BBQ's. Enjoying the beautiful climate, standing over the BBQ waiting for the feed. Australian meat eaters are also pretty fussy about how their steak is done.
Margaret River Pro, a jewel in the crown of the World Surf League's Championship Tour and one of only two prestigious Australian events that draw the globe's surfing elite.
In South Australia & want to find out the best surfing spots? We have them for you.
From ultra-blue waves to bright turquoise tides, Woolamai Beach on Phillip Island is the dream destination for beachgoers and surfers alike.
There are plenty of free camping opportunities around Australia, including campsites specially designed for free campers. Think of the freedom & the money you will save!
Surfing captured the imagination of locals and quickly built up a cult of devotees and proceeded to capture the imagination of sporting Australians.
The Clare Valley is one of Australia's oldest wine regions, dating back 150 years, and home to some of the best Riesling wines in the country.
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