Mapping the seafloor: How deep can we go?

Australia's vast ocean territory is a rich and largely unexplored frontier, covering an area that exceeds its landmass by more than 50%. Spanning the Pacific and Indian Oceans, this expansive marine domain is home to a diverse array of marine species, habitats, and resources. The depths of these waters are equally impressive, with a significant portion plunging far beneath the surface. In fact, excluding the waters surrounding Antarctica, it's estimated that around 70% of Australia's ocean territory lies below 1,000 meters (3,281 feet), while nearly 50% of this vast expanse reaches depths of over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet).