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New South Wales is a land of contrasts, with pristine beaches, snowfields, lush rainforests and the outback all vying for visitors' attention. Bondi and Byron bay are two of the state's most popular beaches, where you can go swimming or surfing. 

Melbourne is the country's cultural capital, but if you travel outside the city, you'll find mist-laden mountains, sandy beaches and the rugged Southern Ocean along the famed Great Ocean Road.

When the Commonwealth of Australia was formed in 1901, it was agreed that the seat of government should be in neutral ground due to intense Sydney-Melbourne rivalry. The name 'Canberra' comes from an Aboriginal word meaning 'meeting place'.

Queensland is a holidaymaker's paradise. The Great Barrier Reef is a World Heritage area protecting extensive coral gardens and fish species, while the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Tropical North Coast are all equally appealing destinations.

Tasmania is just a short flight or boat trip away from the mainland. Here you will discover colonial villages, boutique vineyards, excellent local produce and breathtaking ocean views like that of Wineglass Bay.

South Australia is one million square kilometres of endless desert, as well as fertile vales. The Barossa Valley is one of Australia's most admired wine regions, and you can discover the wildlife haven of Kangaroo Island.

Western Australia is the country's biggest state, encompassing many precious natural features. There is the extraordinary marine life of Ningaloo Reef, the limestone sentinels of the Pinnacles Desert and the 350 million-year-old Bungle Bungle Range.

The Northern Territory is characterised by vast tracts of desert and tropical woodlands. The Red Centre is ancient and breathtaking, home to the incredible rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.