Geography is the science of the Earth’s form, its physical features, climate and population, and how they relate to each other. The first part of Geography and climate describes Australia’s land forms and topographic features and how they were formed. The second part describes the island continent’s wide range of climatic conditions. The third part discusses water resources, a major factor in land form and climate which impacts on many aspects of life in Australia.
Severe drought conditions have been experienced throughout much of Australia recently, resulting in a range of social and economic problems. The section Drought - Environment focuses on rainfall deficiencies as the primary indicator of drought during the 12-month period to June 2003. The economic impact of the drought is discussed in the article Impact of the drought on Australian production in 2002-03 - National accounts.
The bushfires which occurred at the end of 2002 and the beginning of 2003 were among the most protracted and extensive since European settlement of Australia. The 2002-03 bushfire season is examined in the section Bushfires - Environment.
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