Australia is an ancient island continent of contrasts and extremes, from lush tropical rainforests to the parched deserts of the inland. The continent's diversity of climates, landforms and habitats are home to an array of fauna and flora, many unique to Australia. At sixteen sites, the natural and cultural heritage values are so outstanding that they have been inscribed on the World Heritage List. In these, and in national parks and reserves, the country's natural treasures are protected and preserved.
