Expore this Australia political map showing six states and seven external territories of Australia.
States of Australia
New South Wales
Victoria
Queensland
Western Australia
South Australia
Tasmania
Australian Territories
Internal Territories
Australian Capital Territory
Northern Territory
Jervis Bay Territory
External Territories
Norfolk Island
Christmas Island
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Australian Antarctic Territory
Coral Sea Islands
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
Heard Island and McDonald Islands
States and Territories of Australia
Australia is composed of six states and two territories, all with different geographical, economic and cultural characteristics. These divisions are also significant in governance, infrastructure and economic development.
New South Wales is the most populous of Australia's states, with Sydney as its capital and economic centre. It is approximately 801,150 square kilometres in size and ranges from the Blue Mountains and the coastal beaches to the Murray River. Finance, technology, tourism, and agriculture are the main drivers of the state economy.
Australia’s second smallest in size yet second most populous state is Victoria in the southeastern part. Melbourne, its capital city, is famous for its cultural, arts, and sports activities. The state of Victoria extends approximately 237,657 square kilometers and encompasses the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, and the Victorian Alps. Manufacturing, education and tourism are the main economic drivers.
Queensland is the second largest state covering 1,730,648 square kilometres and has a tropical and subtropical climate. Brisbane is the capital and a major business and trade hub. The state has the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest, and extensive agricultural and mining industries and play a significant role in contributing to the Australian economy.
Western Australia is the biggest state covering 2,645,615 square kilometres. Perth the capital is noted for its insulation from the major Australian cities. The state has vast mineral resources of iron ore and gold and a strong agricultural sector. The coastal areas and national parks are a tourist attraction to the world.
Covering an area of 983,482 square kilometers, South Australia has Adelaide as its capital city. Other notable areas include wine growing regions such as the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Defense, space technology, agriculture and renewable energy are main stay of the economy of the state. The climate of the area is semi-arid and the Flinders Ranges and the Eyre Peninsula are the major geographical features.
Tasmania is an island state, located in the Bass Strait, and separated from mainland Australia. It is 68,401 square kilometres and has Hobart as its capital city. The state is popular for its natural attractions including national parks, rugged coastlines and diverse wildlife. Tourism, agriculture and aquaculture are the main economic activities.
The Northern Territory is one of the least populated regions of Australia covering 1,420,970 square kilometres. Darwin is the capital and the gateway to Southeast Asia. Kakadu National Park, Uluru and rich Indigenou culture define the region. Mining, tourism and defence are main economic activities.
The Australian Capital Territory, which is the smallest territory at 2,358 square kilometers and is home to the nation’s capital, Canberra, is relatively small. The capital of Australia, Canberra, is the political and administrative centre of the country and hosts government institutions, embassies and national landmarks such as Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. The economy is dependent on public administration, education and research.
Each state and territory of Australia are different and play a unique role in the development of the country, contributing diverse landscapes, economic strengths and cultural heritage. Australia's national and global identity is therefore multi-faceted and shaped by these distinct identities.
