Western Australia

Western Australia is Australia’s largest state and renowned for its unique natural attractions and diverse wildlife.

Quick Facts

Category	Details
Size:	Western Australia is Australia’s largest State. At 2,525,500 sq km, Western Australia is about the same size as Western Europe, and possess cattle stations (ranches) the size of England.
Population:	The population of Western Australia is around 2 million. About 1.5 million people live in the capital city of Perth.
Climate:	Western Australia’s climate is varied and ranges from arid tropical in the Kimberley region to cool temperate zones in the south. Perth enjoys a true Mediterranean climate with long hot summers (December - February) and mild cool winters (June - August). Whatever time of year you visit Western Australia, you are sure to find warm sunshine and blue skies. The incredible variety of landscapes and climates make it a perfect year-round destination. Perth is famous for its blue skies - it has more hours of sunshine than any other Australian capital city. Temperatures vary greatly throughout the State. Perth’s summer averages are 18ºC (minimum) to 29ºC (maximum) and winter averages are 8ºC (minimum) to 18ºC (maximum). Perth’s summer average rainfall is 11 mm and winter average is 164 mm per month.
Transport:	Perth Airport is 20 kilometres east of the city. There is a free inner city transport system known as the CAT bus service. Bus and train services operate daily and are also free within Perth. Ferries operate regular services between the city and South Perth. Fremantle is 20 kilometres from Perth or 20 minutes by campervan. Perth’s beaches are a 15 minute drive by campervan from the city. There are 19 beaches to choose from and range in atmosphere from family, surf, dog exercise and naturaliste.
The people:	Western Australia has produced some extraordinary acts that have taken the world by storm. From music and models to designers and sculptors, the state is a breeding ground for innovative minds, unique talents and fresh ideas. Find out more about where to spot them in WA. Fashion WA’s fashion designers are also an exceptionally talented bunch. Leading local labels include: Aurelio Costarella Ruth Tarvydas Music Perth's booming music scene, known in some circles as the “new Seattle”, is thanks to the success of bands such as Eskimo Joe, Little Birdy, Jebediah, the Sleep Jackson, End of Fashion and Gyroscope. Musically, Perth has always had a strong local scene and is connected to some of the most iconic bands in Australian history, like INXS and AC/DC. AC/DC front man Bon Scott – who grew up in WA – is buried in Fremantle Cemetery. Models Perth has developed a reputation for producing some of the most beautiful models in the world - leaving some to ponder what's in the water. Uber-model Gemma Ward was spotted in the crowd at a modelling competition at age 14, and has since featured in leading campaigns for Hermes, Valentino, Prada, Burberry and Calvin Klein. Megan Gale is a mega-star in Europe. Nicole Trunfio and Pania Rose are making a name for themselves on the international circuit. David Genat stars in Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and Bulgari campaigns. Actors Oscar nominated Hollywood hunk Heath Ledger was born and bred in Perth. Here, you'll also find renowned acting school WAAPA (West Australian Academy of Performing Arts), where Hugh Jackman and Dominic Purcell both graduated. Melissa George was born in Perth and left at the age of 16 to join Home and Away before heading to Hollywood. Perth’s flame haired Isla Fisher also starred in Home and Away before heading to the UK and Hollywood. Artists Some of Australia’s leading artists have hailed from WA. The work of Robert Juniper, Ron Gomboc and the late Guy Grey-Smith are part of prestigious collections around the world. Best-selling writers from WA include Tim Winton, Elizabeth Jolley and Sally Morgan.

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Related Information

Itineraries – Britz The Savannah Way Navigate your way across the Top End on this 14-day ultimate adventure journey from Cairns on the east coast to the white sands and blue water of Broome in the far north-west.

State Highlights – Western Australia Go west to the State that sits proudly on the edge of the majestic Indian Ocean and you’ll find adventure lies at every turn.

Australian Tourism Offices Head to the Britz Base for links to Australia’s official State Tourism websites for details on local events, attractions and must-sees.

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