Australian geology is characterized by its ancient rock formations, many of which date back over 3 billion years. The continent is primarily composed of the Australian Shield, which includes the Pilbara and Yilgarn cratons. These stable regions are surrounded by younger sedimentary basins, such as the Great Artesian Basin, which contain valuable resources like coal and natural gas. Australia's geological history is marked by significant events, including the breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana and the formation of the Great Dividing Range. The diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains, reflect this complex geological past, making Australia a unique area for studying earth sciences.