Land Use in Australia: Agriculture, Mining, Conservation, and Cities

Land Use in Australia: Agriculture, Mining, Conservation, and Cities

1. Agriculture (Dominant)

Vast grazing (sheep, cattle), wheat belt, cotton, horticulture, viticulture.

2. Forestry

Native forests (SE, SW) – sustainable timber production.

3. Mining

Iron ore, coal, gold, copper, uranium – major export earner; regulated for environmental impact.

4. Urban Development

Small land fraction but high concentration: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide.

5. Conservation & Protected Areas

Millions of hectares in national parks, reserves, World Heritage sites (Great Barrier Reef, Uluru).

6. Tourism

Coastal resorts, reef access, outback experiences drive infrastructure.

Policy balances economic, social, environmental goals via zoning and sustainability frameworks.