Home Topics History & Culture World Heritage sites of Australia

World Heritage sites of Australia

Shark Bay World Heritage area, Western Australia. Image credit: Andrew Gregory/Australian Geographic

In 1978, 12 sites were inscribed on the first UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, the official list totals more than 1000 sites.

Australia is home to 20 of them.

“Australia’s collection of 20 UNESCO World Heritage sites are some of the most extraordinary natural and cultural treasures on the planet – after all, a place has to be truly remarkable to make it onto UNESCO’s list,” boasts Tourism Australia.

“Our World Heritage wonders range from prehistoric rainforest wilderness and ancient Aboriginal settlements to unique landscapes and natural attractions, as well as convict heritage and iconic 20th century buildings. Some are listed for their heritage values, others for their natural or cultural values. Many achieved their special status thanks to the passion and commitment of conservationists, ensuring that these special places will always be treasured. Here’s a taste of some of them.

Related: Will this be Australia’s next World Heritage Area?

Read Next

The outback town that was sold for parts

Once a prosperous and thriving community, the uranium-mining town of Mary Kathleen, about 50km by road east of Mount Isa in north-western Queensland, is now a ghost town.

Floating first

Colour fills the skies above Northam, Western Australia, as the Top Guns of the balloon world chase glory in the Women’s World Hot Air Balloon Championship.

An unexpected Pacific paradise

Visiting Micronesia’s islands and atolls offers an unexpected rare glimpse into remote communities steeped in centuries-old cultural traditions.