Country Profile: Coral Sea Islands
The Coral Sea Islands are a small territory located in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia. This territory consists of numerous islands and reefs, primarily characterized by coral and sand formations. The population is transient, with no permanent inhabitants, though it hosts a small meteorological staff. Governed as part of Australia, the Coral Sea Islands Territory is administered from Canberra, aligning its legal system with that of Australia.
Geography
The Coral Sea Islands lie in the Oceania region and are scattered across a vast sea area of about 780,000 sq km. The total land area of the islands is merely 3 square kilometers, primarily consisting of cays. The islands boast a long coastline of 3,095 km and are situated within tropical climatic conditions.
- 3 sq km total land area
- 3,095 km coastline length
- 0 km land borders
- 200 nm exclusive fishing zone
- Notable nesting areas for birds and turtles
People and Society
There are no permanent residents inhabiting the Coral Sea Islands, making it a largely uninhabited territory. The only people present are the meteorological staff stationed on Willis Island.
- Population: 0 permanent inhabitants
- Willis Island hosts temporary meteorological staff
Environment
The environmental landscape of the Coral Sea Islands includes tropical conditions with no permanent freshwater resources. Environmental concerns arise from activities such as coral mining and overfishing, which threaten the delicate marine ecosystem.
- 0% of land used for agriculture (2018 est.)
- 100% of land classified as other (2018 est.)
- Issues include overfishing and blast fishing
- Occasional tropical cyclones pose natural hazards
Government
The Coral Sea Islands are a territory of Australia, governed by the common law system applicable throughout Australia. They are administered from Canberra by the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport.
- Territory governed under Australian law
- Administered from Canberra
- Uses the Australian flag
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for the Coral Sea Islands fall under Australia. There are no military installations or permanent defense forces stationed on the islands.
- Defense is the responsibility of Australia
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 0 | No permanent inhabitants |
| Area | 3 sq km | Total land area |
| Coastline | 3,095 km | Total length of coastline |
| Exclusive Fishing Zone | 200 nm | Maritime claim for fishing rights |
| Highest Point | 9 m | Highest elevation on Cato Island |
| Agricultural Land | 0% | As of 2018 |
Explore more about this country: