Australia is a remarkable destination, celebrated for its vibrant culture, extraordinary wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Below are ten compelling reasons to put Australia on every traveler’s list—plus trusted resources to help you plan responsibly and make the most of your trip.
Unique Wildlife
Australia hosts an astonishing array of native animals—many found nowhere else on Earth. Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, quokkas, cassowaries and the elusive platypus are among the icons of a fauna that includes marsupials, monotremes and dazzling birdlife. This biodiversity thrives across habitats from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. To learn about conservation and the best places to spot wildlife, consult our comprehensive wildlife guide, explore threatened species through the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), track citizen-science sightings with the Atlas of Living Australia, and follow bird conservation efforts at BirdLife Australia. For species-specific conservation initiatives, see the Australian Koala Foundation.
The Great Barrier Reef
Stretching more than 2,300 kilometres (1,400 miles) along Queensland’s coast, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. Comprising thousands of reefs and islands, it supports extraordinary marine life and offers world-class snorkeling and diving. Learn about visiting and conservation through the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, support science and restoration via the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, and consult the reef’s UNESCO World Heritage profile at UNESCO. For responsible operators and trip inspiration, see Queensland’s official reef guide. Be aware the reef faces pressures from climate change—choose tour operators who prioritize reef-safe practices and reef education.
Natural Wonders
Beyond the reef, Australia is home to countless natural treasures. Iconic landmarks such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), the Twelve Apostles, the Pinnacles and the ancient Daintree Rainforest draw photographers and nature lovers from around the world. Many of these places hold deep cultural significance for First Nations peoples and offer opportunities for eco-tourism and meaningful cultural engagement. Discover more about Australia’s natural wonders at Australia.com, plan national park visits via Parks Australia, and explore the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage area.
The Outback
Vast and captivating, the Australian Outback stretches across much of the continent’s interior. Its rugged, arid landscapes are home to plants and animals adapted to extreme conditions and to communities with deep cultural connections to Country. The region offers remote adventures, spectacular stargazing and opportunities to learn from some of the world’s oldest living cultures. For safe and rewarding journeys, check weather and road conditions with the Bureau of Meteorology, review travel and safety advice at Smartraveller, and explore suggested itineraries on the Outback Australia guide. In remote areas, health services such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service are an essential part of life. For astronomy and dark-sky destinations, see DarkSky International.
Unique Flora
Australia’s vegetation is as distinctive as its wildlife. Eucalyptus forests—vital habitat for koalas—dot much of the landscape, while bottlebrushes, banksias, acacias and vibrant wildflowers paint the bush and coastline with seasonal colour. Many species are endemic and adapted to fire and drought. Learn more at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, explore flora records with the Atlas of Living Australia, browse species profiles in the Flora of Australia resource, and discover conservation projects at Bush Heritage Australia. For seasonal displays and horticultural events, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria.
Thriving Cities
Australia’s cities are vibrant and cosmopolitan, each with a distinct personality. From Sydney’s glittering harbour and the Opera House to Melbourne’s celebrated arts scene and coffee culture, and from Brisbane’s sunny riverfront to Adelaide’s festivals and food, Canberra’s museums, Hobart’s waterfront charm and Perth’s relaxed beaches—urban centres blend world-class dining, entertainment and easy access to parks and green space. Discover key attractions like the Sydney Opera House, and explore our guide to Australian cities. For regional planning and events, see local tourism sites such as Visit NSW and Visit Victoria, and explore contemporary art at Hobart’s MONA.
Sporting Culture
Sport is a central part of Australian life. From cricket and Australian Rules football to rugby, tennis and surfing, national passion for sport is visible in community clubs and major international events alike. Highlights such as the Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup attract global audiences. Follow national teams and competitions via the Australian Olympic Committee, Cricket Australia, the AFL, and Tennis Australia. For event details and tickets, visit the Australian Open, and for beach safety and conditions, see Beachsafe.
Pioneering Spirit
For more than 65,000 years, First Nations Australians have cultivated deep knowledge of Country. Today Australia continues to contribute to global innovation in fields such as marine science, medical research and renewable energy. Explore Australian inventions and achievements at the CSIRO, learn about clean-tech funding via the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and review health research initiatives at the National Health and Medical Research Council. Australia also plays a leading role in next-generation radio astronomy at the Square Kilometre Array Observatory. For government programs supporting Indigenous advancement and cultural partnerships, see the National Indigenous Australians Agency.
Unique Landforms
Australia’s geography is strikingly diverse—from the red sands and weathered mesas of the Outback to the karst landscapes of the Nullarbor and the rugged shorelines of the Great Ocean Road. Lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and dramatic mountain ranges offer endless opportunities for exploration and photography. For a geographic overview, see Geoscience Australia, plan a visit to the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park via Parks Victoria, and explore the Great Ocean Road with Visit Victoria’s guide.
Rich Indigenous Cultures
Australia’s First Nations peoples—Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—maintain living cultures with strong connections to land and sea. Visitors can experience art, storytelling, guided walks and cultural tours that foster understanding and respect. Learn more through the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), explore cultural resources at the Australian Museum, consider booking Indigenous-led experiences via Welcome to Country, and support ethical art purchases through the Indigenous Art Code.
These highlights are just the beginning of what makes Australia so captivating. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, vibrant cities or rich cultural heritage, Australia offers something for every traveller. Ready to start planning your adventure? Visit our trip planning hub: Plan Your Australia Trip.