1. Economic & Political Characteristics of Australia, the Pacific Islands and Antarctica
Francisci WG.4

2. Isolation
Australia, the Pacific Islands and Antarctica are isolated from the rest of the world.
Air and water travel are essential to bring goods and services to these regions.
The interior of Australia (called the outback) depends heavily on air travel.

3. Economic Activities Australia’s first major industry was agriculture.
Only a small percentage of land is available for farming.
The dry and semi-dry (steppe) areas of Australia are well suited for cattle and sheep ranching.
Ranching and mining are very important (primary) economic activities in Australia and New Zealand.
One of the world’s top producers of wheat and beef.

4. Mineral Resources
In 1851, the discovery of gold did much to increase the Australian population and improve the economy.
Other minerals found: Coal, diamonds, iron ore, nickel, lead, uranium and zinc.

5. Environmental Balance
Both Australia and New Zealand have unique species found in these areas only (kangaroo, koala).
The introduction of non-native species of plants and animals into the ecosystem has upset the environmental balance in both countries.
For example, the existence of a non-native rabbit in Australia can disrupt the food chain.

6. Communication Systems
Australia is centered in the Asia-Pacific region and has developed strong financial and communication systems (tertiary activities).
Communication systems have expanded to enable Australia, the Pacific Islands and Antarctica to better communicate with the world.

7. Antarctica Treaty
Antarctica is Earth's only continent without a native human population.
The Antarctica Treaty was created in 1959 by twelve countries whose scientists had been active in and around Antarctica.
Antarctica would be used for peaceful purposes only; no building of military bases.
Countries must share scientific info with each other.
No nuclear testing or disposal of radioactive wastes.

8. Hole in the Ozone Layer
In 1985, a hole was found in the ozone layer over Antarctica.
Scientists fear UV radiation will change the ecological system in Antarctica (affect the food chain).
Sunburn, skin cancer, cataracts, damage to plants, and reduction of plankton populations are concerns that have plagued Antarctica.

9. Scientific Studies
Meteorologists: Study atmosphere and weather conditions
Geologists: Study land structures of Antarctica
Biologists: Study responses of animals
Paleontologists: Study fossils (dinosaurs, wooly mammoth)
Physicists: Study auroras, cosmic rays and radio waves