Australia

Australia is not just a country – it is also the world's smallest continent, with a land mass only slightly smaller than that of the USA. Australia achieved its independence over a century ago when the country moved from self-governing colony in 1901 to fully sovereign nation state by the 1930s. It remains a constitutional monarchy, with the Queen as Head of State, and is an active member of the Commonwealth.

Australia is one of the world’s most urbanised nations with almost three quarters of the population living in the 10 largest cities. Since 1945, over 6 million people from 200 countries have come to Australia as economic migrants and the country now has a population of over 20 million people. More than 4 million of these are bilingual - giving Australia a crucial competitive edge in a globalised economy increasingly dependent on language skills.

Australia has flourished since becoming an independent nation. Vast natural resources and high levels of immigration have helped to boost economic growth - the Australian economy has grown by an annual average of 4 per cent since 1990. Greater prosperity has enabled higher investment in social infrastructure such as education, training, health and transport, which in turn helps boost the country’s competitiveness.

Much of Australia’s economic success is down to a competitive, knowledge-oriented skills base and vibrant small business sector. There are more than a million small businesses employing over 3 million people, accounting for almost 60 per cent of recent employment growth and generating almost a third of Australia’s economic output.

Modern Australia also has a very successful arts and media sector, drawing on the richly diverse cultures that make up the nation. Australian musicians, artists and writers have achieved a high level of international success, as has the indigenous Australian film and TV industry. Australians are also passionate about sports and Australian athletes are among the most successful in the world.

Australia has made the most of the opportunities independence offers. Isn’t it time Scotland did too?