The Australian tectonic plates are part of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several large and small plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath. The main plate is the Australian Plate, which covers the continent of Australia and extends into the surrounding ocean. This plate is moving northward at a rate of about 7 centimeters per year. The movement of the Australian Plate interacts with neighboring plates, such as the Pacific Plate and the Indo-Australian Plate. These interactions can lead to geological events like earthquakes and volcanic activity. Understanding these tectonic movements is essential for assessing geological hazards in the region.