There’s no getting away from it – Australia is a very long way away. But if you can get through the longest of long-haul flights (and several friends have managed it with a toddler), it’s fantastic for a family holiday. 
Because whatever age your children, there’s everything from cities to rainforests, the Great Barrier Reef to deserts, plus beaches and culture.
If you’re not sure where to start, Bridge & Wickers tailormakes trips or has a two-week family itinerary taking in city, animals, rainforest and beach.
Here are my top four things to do.
Cuddle a koala
Who wouldn’t love holding a koala? Queensland’s Australia Zoo and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can also walk with kangaroos, are two of the best-known, although it’s not permitted in New South Wales.
Hit the beach
Around 16,000 miles of coastline means you won’t be short of a beach, although currents and marine life mean only certain stretches are safe, so there’s surfing, snorkelling, sunbathing and splashing in the shallows to try.
See a city
Sail across Sydney harbour past the iconic opera house while teens will love the adrenaline thrill of climbing the harbour bridge. Meanwhile Melbourne is the country’s foodie, cultural and fashion capital, with plenty of funky laid-back districts to wander through. And that’s just the start.
Uluru
The national park is certain to make an impact, although time your visit wisely to avoid the worst of the searing heat and flies. The visitor centre also runs activities for children.
Compiled in association with Bridge & Wickers
Image: Boston Public Library/Flickr