Australia - Southeast Asia

Religion
Catholic
26.4%
Anglican
20.5%
Evangelical Christian
14.4%

Population: 22,507,617
(July 2014 estimate)

Capital: Canberra

Language
English

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With 28% of the population born overseas and from non-western backgrounds, Australia is considered one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. Derived from the Latin term terra australis incognita, Australia means "the unknown south land.' The nation was founded as a British penal colony and originally served as a place to hold criminals, debtors, and undesirables from the British Isles. It became independent in 1900. The term "Aussie" was originally used to describe a happy-go-lucky person and to distinguish between indigenous peoples and immigrants from Europe.

The Aborigines, the original inhabitants of Australia, have experienced violence and discrimination since the British colonization, and racism and distrust still exist between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. Both the sixth largest country and the smallest continent in the world, Australia is the world's driest continent, frequently suffering from deadly bush fires. In 2006, Australia experienced its driest season in history, coining it the "Big Dry." Australia is the largest exporter of coal in the world, accounting for 29% of global coal exports. The nation's economy is one of the largest and fastest growing in the world.

Traditionally a Christian nation with freedom of religion, Australia is becoming increasingly secular. While the majority of the population still claims to be Christian, only 10% attend church regularly. The largest denominational contingents are Roman Catholic and Anglican, and the many immigrants living in Australia have also brought a wide variety of religions with them. The Church is being challenged by a New Age, self-created spirituality, and more people are developing negative attitudes toward the Church. Followers of Christ also face ideological debates about topics such as human origin, sexuality, and the existence of God, and discord among the believers concerning these issues is leading to division within the church. Pray that the Australian Christians will be bold witnesses, show the love of Christ to those who oppose them, and be revived once again in their faith.

(Used with permission from www.prayercast.com/australia.html.)

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BIMI has had church planting missionaries serving in Australia for many decades. Though there is a rich heritage of good Independent Baptist churches being started across the land, there is always the need for more. Less than 200 Independent Baptist churches are in current operation in contrast to the approximately 22 million people. To learn more about the Land Down Under, please contact BIMI's Southeast Asia Director.

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