Australia is the world's sixth-largest country by total area and has the population of about 25 million people. The country is located in the Southern Hemisphere, southeast of mainland Asia, and it is made up of the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands. The capital of Australia is Canberra, and the largest city is Sydney. Australia has a diverse population, with Indigenous Australians, immigrants from around the world, and people of British and Irish descent making up the majority. The official language is English.
The country is known for its natural beauty, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback, and its diverse array of flora and fauna, such as kangaroos, koalas and eucalyptus trees. Australia is also home to diverse cultures, reflected in its art, cuisine and festivals.
Australia is a developed country with a market-based economy and a high standard of living. It has a strong tradition of democracy and is a member of the United Nations, G20, Commonwealth of Nations, ANZUS, and the World Trade Organization, among others.
The country is also known for its strong sporting culture, particularly in the areas of cricket, Australian rules football, rugby league, and rugby union.
Australia has a diverse geography which ranges from the tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland to the desert landscapes of Central Australia, and from the snow-capped mountains of Victoria to the pristine beaches of the Gold Coast.