Rottnest IslandFamous for its quokkas – small, wallaby-like marsupials – this is where Perth comes to chill; there is a regular ferry service from Fremantle. Outside school holidays in particular, Rottnest is idyllic, offering sparkling blue ocean, coves for swimming and miles of safe cycling. With its spa, Italian restaurant and upmarket suites, Rottnest Lodge is the perfect getaway.  Tiwi IslandsOnce off-limits to non-Aborigines, the Tiwi Islands now make a popular day trip from Darwin. The two islands, Bathurst and Melville, are famous for their arts and crafts, pristine beaches, sport fishing and love of Aussie Rules football. Most visitors come on an organised tour from Darwin, but various fishing lodges offer basic overnight accommodation.  Kangaroo IslandJust 30 minutes by air from Adelaide, Kangaroo Island (or “KI”) is jaw-droppingly beautiful – a mix of farmland, forest and pristine coastline. There are sea lions, possums, koalas, wallabies and, of course, kangaroos by the score. Feast on seafood, artisan cheese and cool-climate wine. For a dash of glamour, book into Southern Ocean Lodge; our complete feature on this ecological haven should give you further travel inspiration.  Phillip IslandCute little penguins are the lifeblood of Phillip Island. The daily penguin parade is world-famous, but the island (an easy drive from Melbourne, and connected to the mainland by a bridge) is also home to seals, koalas and migratory birds. Long popular with families, Phillip Island is going upmarket with fine dining, great wineries and smart accommodation, such as the 170-room Silverwater Resort in San Remo.  Bedarra IslandThere are plenty of islands on the Great Barrier Reef, but glamorous, secluded Bedarra has always been a cut above the rest. A short boat trip from Mission Beach, on the mainland, Bedarra fulfils every tropical-island fantasy. Swim, snorkel, kayak or just kick back. For maximum indulgence, book a private villa at the refurbished Bedarra resort (0061 7 4068 8233, bedarra.com.au).  Montague IslandWhales, seals, dolphins and penguins are just some of the attractions on Montague Island. Located less than six miles from the south coast of New South Wales, the island is teeming with wildlife. There are half-day tours from Narooma. But if you have time, book the two-night eco tour which includes a night in the old lighthouse keeper’s quarters.  Flinders IslandFirst charted in 1798, this rugged island off the north-east tip of Tasmania has a dark and treacherous past, but is today a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers and beachcombers. Sawyer Bay Shacks comprises two well-equipped beachfront eco cabins, with easy access to both the town of Whitemark and the airport.
This vast continent has no fewer than 8,222 islands, but there are a specific seven that travellers should seek out