Country Profile: Cocos (Keeling) Islands
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands, a territory of Australia, are a small group of tropical islands located in the Indian Ocean. Covering just 14 square kilometers, this remote paradise boasts a population of approximately 593 people, predominantly comprised of Cocos Malays and Europeans. The islands’ economy relies primarily on copra production and tourism, while their governance aligns with Australia as a non-self-governing territory. The rich cultural heritage and unique geography of the islands make them a fascinating aspect of Australia's diverse territories.
Geography
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are situated in southeastern Asia, approximately midway between Australia and Sri Lanka. The territory consists of 27 coral islands forming a horseshoe around a lagoon, with only two islands, Home and West Island, being populated. The climate is tropical and humid, moderated by the southeast trade winds, with the terrain being characterized by flat, low-lying coral atolls.
- Area: 14 sq km
- Coastline: 26 km
- Highest point: South Point on South Island at 9 m
- Maritime claims: Exclusive fishing zone of 200 nm
- Natural hazards: Cyclone season (October to April)
People and Society
As of 2021, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a population estimated at 593 residents. The cultural composition includes primarily Cocos Malays and Europeans, with Malay spoken by the majority. The islands are predominantly Muslim, with a significant percentage of residents practicing Sunni Islam. The age distribution indicates a median age of 40 years, with a reasonable portion of the population being over 65.
- Population (2021): 593
- Languages: Malay (Cocos dialect) 68.8%, English 22.3%
- Predominant religion: Muslim (75%)
- Death rate (2021): 8.89 deaths/1,000 population
- Age structure: 61.5% aged 15-64 years
Economy
The economy of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is primarily supported by industries such as tourism and copra production. The islands export ships and engage in trade with various partners, with a majority of imports coming from Australia. Despite its remote location, the territory maintains a small yet diverse economy reliant on agricultural products such as vegetables, bananas, and coconuts.
- Exports (2023): 31% to the USA, 29% to Singapore
- Top export products: Ships
- Imports (2023): 87% from Australia
- Major industries: Tourism, copra products
- Exchange currency: Australian dollar
Government
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands function as a non-self-governing territory of Australia, administered from Canberra. The governance structure includes a local Shire Council and adherence to the Australian legal framework. The islands have a parliamentary system with a unicameral legislature and elections held every four years.
- Capital: West Island
- Chief of State: King Charles III
- Legislature: Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council with 7 elected members
- Suffrage: Age 18 and older
- Last election date: October 21, 2023
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands lie with the Australian government. The islands do not maintain a military of their own, relying entirely on Australia for security and defense matters.
Energy
There is no specific energy data available for the Cocos (Keeling) Islands within the provided information.
Environment
Environmental challenges faced by the islands include limited freshwater resources and issues with illegal fishing. The tropical climate significantly influences the islands' ecosystem, while land use is entirely categorized as non-agricultural.
- Environmental issues: Limited freshwater resources; illegal fishing
- Climate: Tropical with moderated humidity
- Land use (2018): 100% categorized as 'other'
Transportation
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands currently have one airport, which facilitates air travel to and from the territory.
- Airports: 1 operational airport (as of 2025)
Communications
The islands have limited communications infrastructure, comprising a single local radio station and access to Australian satellite broadcasts. Internet usage is relatively low, with only a small percentage of the population being online.
- Internet users: 13.4% of the population (2021 est.)
- Internet country code: .cc
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 593 | As of 2021 |
| Area | 14 sq km | Total land area |
| Highest Point | 9 m | South Point on South Island |
| Exports to USA | 31% | As of 2023 |
| Imports from Australia | 87% | As of 2023 |
| Death Rate | 8.89/1,000 | As of 2021 |
| Median Age | 40 years | As of 2021 |
| Number of Council Seats | 7 | Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council |
| Legislative Election Date | 10/21/2023 | Most recent election |
| Climate Type | Tropical | Moderated by southeast trade winds |
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