Australia unveils its pavilion theme

Australia announced today its pavilion theme "ImagiNation," which will focus on the innovative way Australians have responded to urban challenges.

An artist's rendition of the Australia Pavilion

"The power of our individual and collective 'ImagiNation' holds the key to achieving a sustainable future for the world's cities," said Peter Tesch, commissioner-general for the Australia Pavilion.

Challenging many of its international stereotypes, the pavilion will reveal the reality of Australia, a dynamic country whose cities enjoy clean air and water and have a strong sense of environmental amenity, inhabited by imaginative, clever, engaging and accomplished Australians.

The pavilion is divided into three parts incorporating inter-related exhibitions called "Journey," "Discover" and "Enjoy."

Tesch encouraged children to participate in the "Name the Mascot" competition which is inviting Chinese people to suggest an appropriate name for Australia's official mascot for the Expo - a kookaburra - the native Australian bird.

"We encourage all children to exercise their imagination by entering our Name the Mascot competition to win a chance to visit Australia and enjoy first hand Australia's exciting city life and beautiful natural environment," he said.