These uninhabited islands came under Australian authority in 1931; formal administration began two years later. Ashmore Reef supports a rich and diverse avian and marine habitat; in 1983, it became a National Nature Reserve. Cartier Island, a former bombing range, is now a marine reserve.

Location: Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, midway between northwestern Australia and Timor island. Includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island.

Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983.

The laws of the Commonwealth of Australia and the laws of the Northern Territory of Australia, where applicable, apply.

Source: The Country Factbook, CIA.