Communication technologies have helped connect Australians across great distances. They let us experience important events as they occur and unite our response to national emergencies.

The government has a role in encouraging and regulating the construction, mining and manufacturing industries. Discover some of Australia’s major projects including the building of Canberra.

Since the First World War, the Australian military has developed, tested and used defence equipment and weapons. During the Cold War, Australia allowed nuclear weapons testing and launched a satellite.

Many inventive Australians have shared their ideas, plans and prototypes with the government, from Dr Victor Chang’s heart valve to the Hills Hoist rotary clothesline.

Australia’s first renewable energy initiative was the Snowy Mountains hydro-electric project. Some renewable energy projects have created conflict between the government and environmental groups.

In a huge, isolated country like Australia, road, rail, sea and air transport play an important role in building our nation, keeping us connected, servicing our communities and defending our borders.