A recent series of destructive tornadoes in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria have shattered the myth the violent storms don't strike Australia. A review of Bureau of Meteorology data by Fairfax Regional Media has also shattered that commonly-held perception. The data, which charts recorded tornadoes between 1795 and 2012, shows more than 1200 tornadoes have killed 28 people, injured dozens and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses.
This map shows the history of tornadoes observed in Australia.
The size of the circle corresponds to the intensity of the tornado, as measured by the Fujita scale. Smaller circles are weaker tornadoes, and larger circles are stronger.
Use the slider to change dates, or press play to see it animated through. Data courtesy Bureau of Meteorology.