The tectonic evolution of Australia

Abstract

Fifteen non-palinspastic palaeotectonic maps, and accompanying explanatory text, are presented to illustrate the progressive development of the Australian continental block from the Archaean to the present. They summarise the structural and chronological framework of tectonic events in Australia as a data base for further research. They are a development from the Tectonic Map of Australia and New Guinea (GSA, 1971). Areas on the maps are classified into Precratonic (Orogenic), Transitional, and Cratonic Domains, and these are further subdivided into various subunits. Areas of known outcrop are distinguished from concealed or inferred rocks. Australia and New Guinea may be divided into major crustal blocks, each of which has its own history and tectonic style, and each of which represents an important stage in the evolution of the Australian continent. Although significant differences are shown between the tectonic patterns developed during the Proterozoic and the Phanerozoic, even more significant parallels exist: the same scheme of tectonic analysis and classification may be applied to both. The fundamental tectonic cycle of geosynclinal deposition and orogenesis, through transitional tectonism, to cratonisation and platform cover deposition, is evident throughout.