What makes the Australian Alps unique
The Australian Alps are different from alpine mountain regions overseas because they have well‑developed soils.
Alpine mountains overseas are generally younger, steeper and rockier due to extensive glaciation. Glacial movement removes sediment that forms soil, carrying it away through ice, water, wind and snow.
The absence of soil means fewer species can survive. In Australia, glacial movement has affected only small areas at the highest elevations in New South Wales
The ecosystem
Soil provides nutrients for plants and acts as an anchor for them to grow in, as well as creating a habitat for micro-organisms and invertebrates.
These plants and animals then become the food source for other fauna, leading to a biodiverse ecosystem with mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and aquatic animals.
Plants also help reduce soil erosion by providing ground cover. The stability of Australian alpine ecosystems depends on good vegetation cover to maintain the health of the soils.
Australian alpine environments make up less than 0.1% of the continent. As a result, many rare flora and fauna found within alpine resorts and surrounding areas occur nowhere else.
Mountain wildlife and vegetation are incredibly special, and it’s up to all of us to protect this unique landscape and the species that rely on it.
Page last updated: 21/04/26