List of States and Territories in Australia

Australia has 6 states and 10 territories, each having unique characteristics and historical significance. The states are self-governing, administratively divided polities that have given up some sovereignty to the federal government. while the territories are legally subject to the federal government.

In this article, we will look into the list of states and territories in Australia in detail, along with their areas, capital cities, and populations.

Number of States and Territories of Australia

The 6 federated states of Australia are New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania (including Macquarie Island), Victoria, and Western Australia. There are 10 federal territories as well. Of these, three are internal – the Australian Capital Territory, the Jervis Bay Territory, and the Northern Territory, on the Australian mainland, and seven are external – the Australian Antarctic Territory, the Ashmore and Cartier Islands, the Cocos Islands, the Coral Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, and Norfolk Island, that are dependent territories.

Except for the Jervis Bay Territory, each state and internal territory has its autonomous executive branch, legislative body, and judicial system; the remaining territories only function as local governments under the supervision of federal agencies.

List of States and Territories in Australia

The below tables list the states and territories of Australia:

List of States in Australia
Federated States of Australia	Area (km²)	Capital City	Population (2021)
New South Wales	809,444	Sydney	8,166,042
Victoria	237,659	Melbourne	6,747,131
Queensland	1,852,642	Brisbane	5,215,605
Western Australia	2,645,615	Perth	2,666,800
South Australia	983,482	Adelaide	1,780,232
Tasmania	68,401	Hobart	541,965

List of Territories in Australia
Territories of Australia	Area (km²)	Type	Capital City	Population (2021)
Australian Capital Territory	2,358	Internal	Canberra	457,145
Northern Territory	1,420,970	Internal	Darwin	256,094
Jervis Bay Territory	72	Internal	Jervis Bay	N/A
Ashmore and Cartier Islands	199	External	N/A	Uninhabited
Australian Antarctic Territory	5,896,500	External	Davis Station	N/A
Christmas Island	135	External	Flying Fish Cove	1,962
Cocos (Keeling) Islands	14	External	West Island	555
Coral Sea Islands Territory	N/A	External	Willis Island	N/A
Heard Island and McDonald Islands	372	External	N/A	Uninhabited
Norfolk Island	35	External	Kingston	1,782

New South Wales

New South Wales is the most populous state in Australia, with a population of approximately 8,166,042 people (as of 2021).

• Sydney, the biggest metropolis and cultural centre of Australia, is located in New South Wales.
• It is famous for having beautiful beaches, including Byron Bay and Bondi.
• It includes popular attractions including the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.
• It provides plenty of landscapes, including the Hunter Valley wine region and the Blue Mountains.

Victoria

Victoria has a population of approximately 6,747,131 people (as of 2021), making it the second most populous state in Australia.

• Melbourne, the capital of the state, is famous for its cuisine, art, and coffee culture.
• It is famous for the Twelve Apostles rock formations and the Great Ocean Road.
• It provides access to excellent wineries located in the Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Valley.
• Rich in historical landmarks, such as Sovereign Hill and the Royal Exhibition Building.

Queensland

Queensland has a population of approximately 5,215,605 people (as of 2021), making it the third most populous state in Australia.

• Features the iconic Gold Coast and the growing metropolis of Brisbane.
• It is famous for having the largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef.
• It provides access to tropical locations including the Daintree Rainforest and the Whitsunday Islands.
• It is known for having theme parks such as Sea World and Dreamworld.

Western Australia

Western Australia has a population of approximately 2,666,800 people (as of 2021), making it the fourth most populous state in Australia.

• Perth, the capital, with lovely beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes the huge Pilbara and Kimberley regions of the Outback.
• Location to beautiful natural landmarks such as Ningaloo Reef and Wave Rock.
• Famous for its Margaret River and Swan Valley wine districts.

South Australia

South Australia has a population of approximately 1,780,232 people (as of 2021), making it the fifth most populous state in Australia.

• The capital, Adelaide, is well-known for its festivals and cultural gatherings.
• Famous for the wine districts of McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley.
• Provides exclusive experiences, such as swimming on Kangaroo Island with sea lions.
• Features the famous Lake Eyre and the natural splendor of the Flinders Ranges.

Tasmania

Tasmania has a population of approximately 541,965 people (as of 2021), making it the least populous state in Australia.

• Known for its natural nature, including Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
• Includes quaint, historically and culturally rich cities like Launceston and Hobart.
• Has unique biodiversity, such as indigenous bird species and the Tasmanian devil.
• Famous for its fine dining and seasonal products, including cheese and fish from Tasmania.

Australian Capital Territory

Canberra is the nation’s capital and home to the Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, and other national institutions.

• Surrounded by nature reserves and woodlands, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation like picnicking, cycling, and bushwalking.
• Includes cultural landmarks such as the Questacon Science Museum, the National Museum of Australia, and the National Gallery of Australia.
• Famous for its yearly celebrations and festivities, such as the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Enlighten Festival, and Floriade.

Northern Territory

Well-known for its huge Outback landscapes, which include Kakadu, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, and Nitmiluk National Parks.

• Provides an opportunity to take part in various Indigenous cultural experiences and to learn about Dreamtime stories, Aboriginal art, and customs.
• Darwin, the nation’s capital, is a cosmopolitan center famous for its open-air markets, waterfront area, and gourmet scene.
• It offers adventurous activities like fishing charters, hot air balloon rides, camel treks, and crocodile cruises.

Jervis Bay Territory

A small region on the coast of New South Wales that includes Jervis Bay and is well-known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

• Provides recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and dolphin viewing.
• Location of Booderee National Park, which has walking paths, cultural heritage sites, and a variety of ecosystems.
• Administratively a part of the Australian Capital Territory but managed as an independent entity.

Ashmore and Cartier Islands

The Ashmore and Cartier Islands are a series of deserted islands and reefs off the northwest coast of Australia that are situated in the Indian Ocean.

• The islands have been declared a marine reserve and protected area due to their abundant marine biodiversity.
• Snorkeling and diving are popular in the nearby waters because of their popular coral reefs, rich marine life, and seabird colonies.
• With restricted access permitted for environmental monitoring and management, the islands have significance for scientific study and conservation initiatives.

Australian Antarctic Territory

One of the world’s largest territories, the Australian Antarctic Territory is Australia’s sovereignty over to a section of Antarctica.

• The region is dedicated to multiple research stations run by Australia and other nations, most of which are used for scientific study.
• Antarctica’s severe environment offers special chances to research biodiversity, oceanography, glaciology, and climate change.
• The Australian Antarctic Division is responsible for managing logistics, scientific research projects, and environmental conservation initiatives in the area.

Christmas Island

Christmas Island, which is located in the Indian Ocean, is well-known for its unusual biodiversity, which includes endemic species and the annual red crab migration.

• Diverse ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and rainforests, can be found on the island, offering protection to a variety of plant and animal species.
• The main forms of tourism on Christmas Island include outdoor activities including birdwatching, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s natural features.
• Travelers are attracted to the island because of its rich heritage of culture, which includes its varied population and historic locations like the abandoned phosphate mines.

Cocos (Keeling) Islands

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are an isolated region in the Indian Ocean known for its white-sand beaches, blue lagoons, and coral reefs.

• Activities that involve the water, such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing, are possible on the islands.
• The islands are known for their unique food, festivals, and cultural events. Their rich cultural past is inspired by Malay, European, and Australian customs.
• To protect the islands’ natural beauty and heritage of culture, ecotourism, and sustainable development are the main tourism goals on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Coral Sea Islands Territory

The Coral Sea Islands Territory is a group of uninhabited islands and reefs situated in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia.

• The territory is mostly used for scientific study, conservation, and environmental preservation, and it is managed out of Canberra.
• The region is well known for its abundant marine biodiversity, which includes colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and seabird colonies that are breeding.
• The Coral Sea Islands Territory has restricted access and few options for tourism or recreational activities because of its unspoiled and isolated location.

Heard Island and McDonald Islands

Heard Island and McDonald Islands are uninhabited volcanic islands located in the southern Indian Ocean. They are a part of the Australian Antarctic Territory.

• The islands’ unique geological characteristics, varied habitats, and great scientific importance have given them the designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Heard Island is the site of Big Ben, Australia’s highest peak, as well as a wealth of species, including seals, penguins, and seabirds, as well as glaciers and lava flows.
• Heard Island and the McDonald Islands are off-limits and heavily restricted entry points, mostly for environmental monitoring and scientific study.

Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is a small island territory in the South Pacific Ocean that is famous for its natural beauty and long history. It is situated between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia.

• The island is well-liked by adventurers and nature lovers because of its beautiful coastal environment, verdant forests, and immaculate beaches.
• The island of Norfolk has a unique Polynesian and prisoner history, highlighted by historically significant locations like Kingston, a prison community listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
• Norfolk Island has a flourishing tourism sector that provides chances for historical tours, nature walks, cultural activities, and peaceful island relaxation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the states and territories of Australia provide an abundance of landscapes and cultural heritage. Every location has a certain attraction, from the active metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne to the isolated wildernesses of Tasmania and the Northern Territory. These different regions provide opportunities for exploration and adventure while contributing to Australia’s uniqueness. The states and territories welcome tourists to see the natural wonders, historic landmarks, and Indigenous cultures that represent the beauty and diversity of the continent.

Related :

• Capital of Australia
• Independence Day of Australia
• List of Sovereign States

FAQs on States and Territories in Australia

What are the States and Territories of Australia?

Australia has six states: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania, along with 10 mainland territories.

What is the difference between a state and a territory?

States have their own governments and constitutions, while territories are governed by the federal government with certain levels of self-governance.

Which state is the most populous in Australia?

New South Wales is the most populous state, home to cities like Sydney and Newcastle.

Which state is known for the Great Barrier Reef?

Queensland is famous for the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where can you find the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge?

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are located in New South Wales, specifically in Sydney, the state capital.

Which state is home to the vibrant city of Melbourne?

Victoria is home to Melbourne, known for its arts, culture, and culinary scene.

Which territory serves as the national capital of Australia?

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is home to Canberra, the national capital of Australia.

Which state is renowned for its wine regions like the Barossa Valley?

South Australia is famous for its wine regions, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.

Where can you find the rugged beauty of the Outback?

The Outback is primarily located in Western Australia, Northern Territory, South Australia, and parts of Queensland.

Which territory is famous for its unique wildlife, including the Tasmanian devil?

Tasmania, an island state, is known for its unique wildlife and natural beauty, including the Tasmanian devil.