Which region of Australia is characterized by being sparsely populated despite its large land area?

The Western Plateau is characterized as a vast and sparsely populated region in Australia, despite covering a significant portion of the country’s land area. This region includes notable features such as deserts, rugged landscapes, and limited water sources, which contribute to its low population density.

The vastness of the Western Plateau encompasses parts of states like Western Australia and Northern Territory, where the environment is generally arid or semi-arid. These conditions make it challenging for large populations to reside there, as resources such as fresh water and arable land are scarce.

In contrast, other regions like the Coastal Plains and Eastern Highlands are more hospitable, with access to resources and greater amenities supporting larger populations. The Central Lowlands, while also less populated compared to coastal areas, still do not match the vast expanses of the Western Plateau in terms of area and sparsity of settlement. Thus, the characteristics of the Western Plateau solidify its identity as a large, sparsely populated region within Australia.