Book Reviews: Atlas of Australian Resources

Summary

This review assesses the Atlas of Australian Resources, published by the Commonwealth Department of National Development between 1952 and 1960. Comprising 30 map sheets with accompanying commentaries, the atlas systematically presents Australia's physical and human resources. The review highlights its success in depicting the spatial concentration of population and economic activities, and commends cartographic innovations in maps such as vegetation, geology, and soils. While certain social and industrial maps exhibit limitations in clarity and design, the atlas overall stands as a significant continental-scale cartographic encyclopedia. The review recommends periodic revision and updating to sustain its enduring value.