Jervis Bay Territory, Federal territory near Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Jervis Bay Territory is a small federal area on the southeastern coast of Australia, spanning bays, beaches and forested hills. It borders New South Wales to the north, west and south, while the eastern boundary runs along the Pacific Ocean.
Canberra needed sea access, so this area was separated from New South Wales in 1915 and handed to the federal government. A naval port was planned here originally, but the plans changed and the land remained largely natural.
The Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community shapes life along the southern shore, where residents maintain their language and fishing techniques. Visitors can see local craft work in the area and learn about the relationship between land and sea.
The territory lies roughly three hours south of Canberra by car and can be reached via the Princes Highway. Accommodation and services are available in Jervis Bay Village or in nearby New South Wales coastal towns.
Although only a few hundred people live here, the territory operates its own post office, fire brigade and primary school. Voters participate in federal elections but have no parliament or local council of their own.
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