Location
Australia lies between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean in the Oceania region covering total area of 7,682,300 sq km.

Climate
Since Australia's seasons are the opposite of the northern hemisphere, spending Christmas at the beach or skiing in August can be quite possible. Here, summer starts in December, autumn in March, winter in June and spring in September. The size, geographical location and the lack of extensive high mountain ranges, are the main responsible factors for wide range of climates in Australia. Generally, the country does not face any extremes. Its average temperature ranges from 23-26°C above the Tropic of Capricorn. The southern areas are more temperate although subject to variations. Australia is supposedly, the driest continent on earth.

Time Zones
Three time zones prevail in Australia, namely, Eastern Standard Time (WEST) which operates in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland; Central Standard Time (CYST) in South Australia and Northern Territory; and Western Standard Time (WAST) in Western Australia. CYST is one half hour behind WEST, while WAST is two hours behind WEST. Australian States except Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland have daylight saving during the summer months.

Clothing
In the tropics, it is preferable to wear lightweight (natural fibers) clothing all year round. Summers can be tolerable in the southern temperate regions, with lightweight clothes, that are suitable for daytime. It is still better to keep a jacket or sweater handy, as nights may, at times get very cool. For the southern winters (Jun-Aug) sweaters and warmer clothes are advisable. Generally, light clothes are required.

Important Cities

1. Canberra (Capital)
2. Adelaide
3. Sydney
4. Melbourne
5. Brisbane
6. Darwin
7. Perth
8. Hobart
9. Alice Springs
10. Townsville
11. Fremantle
12. Cairns

Main Industires

1. Steel
2. Food Processing
3. Mining
4. Chemicals