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Territory of Christmas Island

External territory of ‌Australia
Flag
Anthem
Advance Australia Fair
Location of Christmas Island
Capital Flying Fish Cove
Status External territory
Administrator
- From 2009 Brian Lacy
Legislature Shire Council
History
October 1, 1958 Sovereignty transferred to Australia
Area 135 km²
Population
- 2009 1,402
 Density 10.3/km²
Currency Australian dollar
Flag of None Colony of Christmas Island
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The Territory of Christmas Island is an external territory of Australia.


Background

Named in 1643 for the day of its discovery, the island was annexed and settlement began by the UK in 1888. Phosphate mining began in the 1890s. The UK transferred sovereignty to Australia in 1958. Almost two-thirds of the island has been declared a national park.[1]

Economy

Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in December 1987 the Australian government closed the mine. In 1991, the mine was reopened. With the support of the government, a $34 million casino opened in 1993, but closed in 1998.[2]



Administrator

  • Brian Lacy () (October 5, 2009 - )

Nation

Australian Polities

Neighbouring Nations

References

  1. The CIA World Factbook: Introduction - Background
  2. The CIA World Factbook: Economy - Overview
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