Modern Australia is a highly urbanised country, with the vast majority of people living in the capital cities. However, Australian culture and history comes predominantly from outside the major urban centres. The large number of country towns dispersed throughout the continent were indispensable in the viability of early European settlement in Australia, and Australians continue to feel a sense of belonging to the countryside.

Nowadays country towns give valuable insight into Australia's history. They also provide the nation with beautiful landscapes, and some of its most original architecture.