Sydney

International Students

Sydney has a population of over four million people and is the largest and oldest city in Australia. It is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and is perhaps the most well known of all Australian cities internationally.

It is Australia's largest financial centre and is home to the Australian Stock Exchange. Sydney's leading economic sectors include property and business services, manufacturing, tourism, media, and health and community services.

History

Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales, and is the site of the first European colony in Australia, established in 1788 at Sydney Cove by Arthur Phillip, leader of the First Fleet from Britain. A resident of the city is referred to as a Sydneysider.

Sydney is located on Australia's south-east coast. The city is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city's nickname, "the Harbour City".

Entertainment

The Sydney Opera House is an internationally recognised symbol of Australia - but it is also a living, vital centre for the arts. National and International Drama, Dance and Music companies offer rich programs for the citizens of Sydney throughout the year.

Sydney is notable for its spectacular harbour and famous ocean beaches at Bondi and Manly The metropolitan area is also surrounded by on three sides by national parks including the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park.

The city has played host to numerous international sporting, political and cultural events, including the 1938 British Empire Games, the 2000 Summer Olympics and the 2003 Rugby World Cup. In September 2007, the city hosted the leaders of the 21 APEC economies for APEC Australia 2007, and in July 2008 will host World Youth Day 2008.

For further information about entertainment in Sydney, please visit: www.sydneyaustralia.com/

Climate

Sydney's climate is mainly dry and mild with fine hot summers and cool sunny winters encouraging an outdoor lifestyle. Summer temperatures average 28ºC and can reach over 40ºC in Sydney's western region. The weather during winter is usually mild (18º C) but overnight temperatures occasionally fall to zeroºC.

For further information about weather in Sydney, please visit: www.bom.gov.au/weather/nsw/

Transport

Sydney's public transport network combines travel on trains, buses and ferries.

For further information about transport in Sydney, please visit: www.131500.info