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The Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Advanced Science and Technology

With more than 10,000 beaches, a human history spanning 50,000 years, wide open spaces from the tropics to the mountains, unique wildlife and modern cities rated some of the most liveable in the world, Australia is an exciting place to be.

Australia: sun, sea, surf and more

Australia is about the same size as the 48 United States mainland states and has a population density of around two people per square kilometre, compared with the United States average of 32. But that doesn’t mean that nothing is happening. The Defence Science and Technology Organisation’s main sites are in Adelaide and Melbourne, two of the world’s most liveable cities according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2011 annual ranking.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a cosmopolitan hub of about 1.2 million people in a planned city surrounded by parks that has a reputation of being easy to get around. DSTO’s site is at Edinburgh in Adelaide’s northern suburbs. The city streets are filled with lively cafes and restaurants that reflect ethnic diversity of its population. Dubbed the city of churches, it is also well known for its festivals and sporting events. Cricket fans, or the curious, should catch a match at the Adelaide Oval, renowned as one of the prettiest cricket grounds in the world. South Australia’s capital is set on the coast, but surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys that are home to a wide range of primary produce.

Brisbane

A dynamic city of around two million inhabitants set on the banks of the Brisbane River, this subtropical gateway is filled with creative energy and a huge range of outdoor activities such as sailing, surfing, hot-air ballooning and 4WD excursions. The temperate year round climate makes for a vibrant street life with cultural precincts of theatres, museums and international cuisine. World class sporting venues, parklands and river walks make an endless list of things to do in Brisbane which is also a great base for exploring Queensland’s other attractions including the Great Barrier Reef, cool rainforests and sun-drenched islands. DSTO has two bases in Queensland, one at suburban Pullenvale, about 15km west of Brisbane’s central business district, and the other at Innisfail, about 100km south of Cairns in the tropical north of the State.

Canberra

Australia’s capital, Canberra is the centre of Australian Government and home to a vibrant diplomatic community, national monuments and attractions, a cosmopolitan nightlife, all kinds of sports and entertainment, and a myriad of events and festivals ranging from fast cars, to folk music to flowers. Australia’s modern culture, history and way of life are reflected in the many museums, galleries and activities that Canberra offers. It’s easy to get around the bush capital with its wide roads and network of bike-paths. And you might just see a kangaroo or two on the way to DSTO’s headquarters about 12km east of the central business district.

Melbourne

Hugging the tip of Australia’s south-east coast, Victoria is a compact area with a wealth of regional areas and attractions, from sweeping coastline and pristine beaches to national parks and forests teeming with wildlife, to mountains offering skiing, climbing and hiking. The capital, Melbourne, is an exciting blend of old and new. Set on the banks of the Yarra River, Melbourne’s distinctive mid-1800s gold-boom era architecture blends with modern glass skyscrapers to create an exceptional cityscape. Melbourne showcases Australia’s laid-back lifestyle and revels in a sense of sophistication and style. With its diverse inner-city villages, chic fashion stores, more than 3000 restaurants, bars and cafes and an excellent transit system, it’s a great place to live. DSTO’s Melbourne site is at Fishermans Bend, in the rejuvenating port district just five kilometres from downtown Melbourne.

Sydney

Sydney is a global city bursting with character, an urban beach lifestyle and a stunning harbour. The oldest and largest city in Australia is renowned for famous landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House as well as its first-class restaurants, fresh seafood, myriad harbour experiences, sparkling beaches, nightlife and fantastic shopping. Stretching from the city surf beaches to the sandstone cliffs of the Blue Mountains, this city provides something for everyone. It is also home to part of DSTO’s Maritime Operations Division at Eveleigh, less than 5km from the city centre.