Western Australia: Location, Geography & Key Facts

Western Australia (WA) occupies the western third of the Australian continent—2.53 million km² (33% of Australia's landmass), making it the largest state and second-largest subnational entity globally (after Sakha Republic, Russia).

Geographic Boundaries

• West & South: Indian Ocean (12,889 km coastline)
• East: Northern Territory (1,789 km border) & South Australia (1,622 km)
• North: Timor Sea, Joseph Bonaparte Gulf
• Capital: Perth (31.95°S, 115.86°E) – 2.1M metro (80% of state pop.)

Physiographic Regions

Unique Biodiversity

• Endemism: 80% plants, 70% reptiles, 50% birds found nowhere else.
• Iconic species: Quokka (Rottnest), Numbat (emblem), Bilby, Western Ground Parrot, Whale Shark (Ningaloo).
• Threats: Feral cats/foxes, land clearing, climate change, dieback (Phytophthora).

Economy

• GSP: ~A$200B (2023) – 17% of Australia; per capita highest.
• Exports: Iron ore (60%), LNG, gold, lithium, wheat, wool, live cattle.
• Time Zone: AWST (UTC+8) – no DST.

Travel Reality

Perth to Sydney = 4,000 km (4 hr flight). Vast distances require flying or serious road-trip planning. Sealed highways connect main centers; remote tracks need 4WD, preparation, permits.