Table of Contents
Introduction
Australia, the world’s smallest continent, is a land of diverse landscapes, culture, and history. The country is known for its unique wildlife, beautiful beaches, and vast outback. However, the continent’s boundaries and territories are often overlooked. In this article, we will explore the border of the Australian continent, its surrounding waters, and its territories.
What is the Border of the Australian Continent?
The border of the Australian continent is defined by the surrounding waters. The continent is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Indian Ocean to the west and south, and the Southern Ocean to the south. The continent is comprised of the mainland, Tasmania, and several smaller islands.
What Are Australia’s Territories?
In addition to the mainland and Tasmania, Australia has several external territories. These territories include Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Norfolk Island, and several others. These territories are governed by Australia and are subject to Australian law. However, they are not part of the Australian mainland.
The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
Australia has an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) that extends 200 nautical miles from its coastline. This zone is an area of water where Australia has special rights over the exploration and use of marine resources. The EEZ includes the waters surrounding the mainland, Tasmania, and the external territories.
Australia’s Maritime Boundaries
Australia has established maritime boundaries with neighboring countries to determine the extent of its territorial waters. These boundaries are based on international law and agreements between the countries involved. The countries with which Australia has maritime boundaries include Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, New Zealand, and several others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the border of the Australian continent is defined by the surrounding waters of the Pacific, Indian, and Southern Oceans. Australia also has several external territories, which are governed by Australian law but are not part of the mainland. The country’s exclusive economic zone extends 200 nautical miles from its coastline, and it has established maritime boundaries with neighboring countries. Understanding Australia’s borders and territories is crucial in appreciating the unique culture and history of this beautiful continent.