Country Profile: Coral Sea Islands

The Coral Sea Islands are a remote territory located in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia. These islands are characterized by their small size, with no permanent inhabitants; rather, they host a small team of meteorological staff. The economy is virtually non-existent due to their uninhabited status, and governance is maintained by Australia. The environment features tropical climate conditions and is important for marine biodiversity despite facing environmental challenges.

Geography

The Coral Sea Islands are comprised of small islands and reefs, covering a total area of 3 square kilometers. They are situated within a larger marine area of approximately 780,000 square kilometers. The territory is characterized by sandy cays and coral reefs and has a coastal line stretching 3,095 kilometers. The climate is tropical, with occasional tropical cyclones posing a natural hazard.

3 sq km total land area
3,095 km of coastline
200 nm exclusive fishing zone
9 m highest elevation at an unnamed location on Cato Island
Important nesting area for birds and turtles

People and Society

There are no permanent residents on the Coral Sea Islands. The only inhabitants are the meteorological staff stationed on Willis Island, who manage weather observations. The territory is uninhabited except for these temporary personnel.

0 permanent inhabitants
Meteorological staff on Willis Island

Environment

The Coral Sea Islands face significant environmental issues, including a lack of permanent freshwater resources. Overfishing and harmful fishing practices, such as blast fishing, have resulted in damaging effects on the delicate marine ecosystem. The islands are noted for their rich biodiversity but are threatened by human activities.

No permanent freshwater resources
Threatened by coral mining and overfishing
Tropical climate affects biodiversity

Government

The Coral Sea Islands Territory is a dependency of Australia and is administered from Canberra by the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport. The legal system in the territory follows the common law established in Australia, and the Australian flag serves as the official flag.

Territory of Australia since 1969
Administered from Canberra
Common law system applies

Military and Security

Military defense of the Coral Sea Islands falls under the responsibility of Australia. As an uninhabited territory with no military forces of its own, it relies on Australian defense resources for security.

Defense is the responsibility of Australia

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Total Area	3 sq km	Total land area
Population	0	No permanent inhabitants
Coastline Length	3,095 km	Total coastline
Highest Point	9 m	Elevation at Cato Island
Exclusive Fishing Zone	200 nm	Maritime claim