Australia - the smallest and driest continent of the planet, as well as the thinnest of all known in the world. The surrounding seas and oceans have little effect on the climate of the hinterland, so little rain falls there.About half of the country is desert or semi-desert. But along the northeast coast, where it rains more often, grow the tropical rainforest. As you move inland, they are replaced by bright eucalyptus forests. There is growing several species of eucalyptus.