Australia is the sixth largest country in the world. It's about the same size as the 48 mainland states of the USA and 50 per cent larger than Europe, but has the lowest population density in the world - only two people per square kilometre. The kangaroo is unique to Australia and one of our most easily recognised mammals. There are more kangaroos in Australia now than when Australia was first settled. Estimates suggest around 40 million.

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Sydney Opera House, an extraordinary structure on the harbour at Bennelong Point, is one of the world's premier performing-arts centres. Opened in 1973, it has taken its place among the world's most important buildings. It was designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon and took almost 15 years to build. What many people don't realise is that Sydney Opera House is one of the world's busiest performing arts centres, with over 2,500 performances and events held every year. More about the Sydney Opera House

A sophisticated, scenic city, there is plenty to do in Western Australia’s capital. In a commanding position above the city and the Swan River, the sprawling Kings Park has natural bushland, walking trails and a 12 hectare botanical garden, famous for its spring wildflower displays. Kings Park occupies approximately 400 hectares of Mount Eliza overlooking the city of Perth and the Swan River. Situated only a few minutes from the centre of Perth, the Park has much to offer with its sweeping parklands, Botanic Garden, wildflowers (which are spectacular, especially in Spring), and native bushland (two-thirds of the park). More about the Perth Park of Paradise

Step into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a land where imposing russet monoliths loom over flat sand plains, and you step into a world of mystery and legend. This is the home of two of the most breathtaking unique wonders in Australia. Uluru (Ayers Rock), one great monolith rising 348 metres from the earth, and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), 36 red landforms clustered together just 32 kilometres away. This land is more than a magnificent sight, it is home to the Anangu Aboriginal people. More about the Unique Wonders of the Desert

Tropical North Queensland – with the city of Cairns as its major gateway – the perfect base for you to explore the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Wet Tropics and Riversleigh Fossil Fields. Whether it's an indulgent break or a life changing adventure, this stunning region offers you a magical and unforgettable experience. Few places on earth can boast such unique natural attractions with the Great Barrier Reef offering an underwater treasure trove of dazzling coral and sea life, and superb World Heritage listed tropical rainforests within easy reach. More about the Tropical North Queensland

Australia's heart, and much of its landmass, lies in its outback. Four wheel drive camping tours can combine Aboriginal experiences with outback adventure. Learn to forage for bushtucker, listen to dreamtime stories around the campfire and reach a deeper understanding of Australia's indigenous culture. The true outback experience starts at the gold town of Norseman and take the Eyre Highway across the sweeping Nullarbor Plain to the Great Australian Bight coastline - one of Australia's greatest drives. More about the Outback

If you are looking for a real Aboriginal culture exchange this is it! You’ll visit the modern day Aboriginal community of Nguiu (pronounced new-you) with a population of 2000 and be shown around by a local guide. For those who want a more hands on experience camp overnight in the northern part of the island and participate in traditional food hunting and gathering. The Tiwi people are experts at living off the land and often collect their favourite bush foods. Dare to try mangrove worm or their favourite turtle eggs. Don’t worry, you won’t have to rely on your catch normal food is included and we look after most dietary requirements. More about Visit My Island Home

Australia is well known for its sharks, and despite their fearsome reputation, most species pose no threat. In fact diving with sharks has become a major attraction for many divers who visit Australia each year. Australia is also one of the very few places on earth where you can swim with a whale shark, the largest fish in the sea with a total length approaching 18 metres, yet one that is totally harmless to humans. More about Swim With Whale Sharks

Born to shop? You'll be in your element in Sydney. Shopping fantasies spread wings in the city malls, exclusive boutiques, trendy markets and suburbs that feel like they were designed with shoppers in mind. Shopping fantasies spread wings in the Pitt Street Mall, the pedestrian plaza between King and Market streets in central Sydney. Running off the plaza are five multi-level malls, including such shopping sensations as the Mid-City Centre and Skygarden - a striking, futuristic complex that houses some of the most famous names in haute couture and accessories. More about Sydney's Shopping Heaven

Canberra region cool climate wines are now receiving worldwide recognition. There are 140 vineyards with more than 30 cellar doors in peaceful rural countryside around Canberra, and most are only 30 minutes from the city. The district’s vineyards produce all the varieties you would expect from a premium wine region. Despite the sophisticated product, the wineries are small and friendly and you may even get to meet the winemaker at the cellar door. More about the Wines of the Canberra Region