Australian Coastal Bathymetry and Topography Grid

Geoscience Australia compiled this 0.0025-degree resolution grid from multibeam, single beam, and satellite-derived bathymetry data in 2009. The dataset combines onshore topography from a revised Australian grid, a New Zealand grid, and SRTM DEM data. It covers Australia's landmass and adjoining Exclusive Economic Zone, excluding offshore territories like Heard and McDonald Islands.

Use Cases

• Model coastal inundation by analyzing the high-resolution 0.0025 dd bathymetry and topography interface.
• Map seafloor features for habitat studies using the compiled multibeam and single beam bathymetric observations.
• Create 3D visualizations of the Australian continental shelf by integrating the onshore topography grid with offshore bathymetry.
• Compare satellite-derived bathymetry from ETOPO grids with direct soundings in areas of sparse observational data.
• Analyze sediment transport pathways using the detailed elevation data from the revised Australian topography grid and SRTM DEM.

Strengths

• High-resolution 0.0025-degree grid where direct bathymetric observations are dense.
• Integrates data from multiple authoritative sources including Geoscience Australia's 2009 compilation and SRTM DEM.
• Covers a significant spatial area including Australia's landmass and its adjoining Exclusive Economic Zone.

Limitations

• Spatial coverage excludes Australia's marine jurisdiction offshore from the Territory of Heard and McDonald Islands and the Australian Antarctic Territory.
• The core bathymetry data is from 2009, which may not reflect recent seafloor changes.
• In areas without sounding data, the grid relies on lower-resolution 1-2 arc minute satellite-derived ETOPO bathymetry.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia, Australian Ocean Data Network.

Collection Method

Compiled from multibeam and single beam surveys, digitized charts, and satellite-derived ETOPO grids. Onshore topography derived from national grids and SRTM DEM.

Time Range

Bathymetry data compiled in 2009, referencing source grids from 2005, 2008, and earlier.

Freshness

The underlying bathymetry data was compiled in 2009, though the web service record was last updated in 2026.

Geography

Australia's topography and the bathymetry of the adjoining Australian Exclusive Economic Zone.