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Sydney, NEW SOUTH WALES

Sydney is Australia’s oldest, largest and best known city, with a population of approximately 4.3 million. It is the site of the country’s oldest European settlement and is also home to some of Australia’s best known icons such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. A major international tourist destination, Sydney is built around a spectacular harbour, with much to see and do in a moderate climate.

Sydney is a sprawling city, similar in area to greater London (but with half the population). Like London, Sydney has some awe-inspiring architecture but, unlike London, it is also known for its clean, sandy beaches, of which Bondi Beach is the most famous.

The city boasts a busy cultural calendar with theatre, live music, art, film and dance all attracting a following. One of Sydney’s biggest events on the calendar is the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade, which passes through the centre city each February.

As in other Australian cities, sport is a way of life in Sydney, with northern rugby league and southern Australian Rules football both followed passionately here, along with cricket, soccer, netball and rugby union. Sydney’s beaches also provide an exciting surfing environment.

The city has a strong public transport network, but cars are still the preferred mode of transport due to the city sprawl. Freeways are continually upgraded but traffic jams can still be a problem during peak hours. Long-distance trains provide an excellent service to Sydney’s surrounding areas such as the majestic Blue Mountains and regional cities of Wollongong and Newcastle.

Industry is strong in Sydney, with the bustling central business district being home to more businesses—and generating more money—than any other city in Australia. Personal income is the nation’s highest here, but so are real estate prices (particularly close to the city or harbour) and the cost of living.

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