Outback Australia is one of the few places on Earth where nature remains vast, wild, abundant and largely untouched by development. Comprised of forests, woodlands and grasslands, this area has a vast and unique array of plant and animal life. In fact, Australia ranks first among all countries for the total number of uniquely, native mammal and reptile species. Take a virtual tour across northern Australia.

Australia’s marine environment is no less exceptional. The waters around the country are a superhighway for marine life. Up to nine out of every ten species along the South West coast are found only in this area. Take a virtual tour of Australia's South West marine region. In the northwestern corner of the country, the Kimberley region remains one of the last large and healthy refuges for sharks, dolphins, turtles, whales and dugong (a large marine mammal).

Australia's abundant wilderness and water habitats are under threat. Too few people tend the land that makes up much of the country's extensive interior. Destructive wildfires and large numbers of feral animals, such as wild pigs and buffalo, further degrade the land. The impact of climate change also poses a serious challenge. Pollution, overfishing, destruction of important habitats and oil and gas development all threaten Australia's remarkable marine life.