History of Sydney is intricately interwoven with the history of Australia. Originally occupied by aboriginal Australian tribes, the sighting of Botany Bay by Captain James Cook and his crew led to the British occupation of the place. Sydney was the first place to be named and occupied by the settlement of convicts sent by the Great Britain. With the formation of New South Wales Council the area in and around present day Sydney developed first. Though the aboriginal Australians were intimidated and ill-treated by the new colonists, there was little they could do to protest against the scientifically advanced Europeans. Governing councils were automatically formed and the country of Australia came under the British rule. Sydney became the first official city of Australia. Today Sydney is ...more >>the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 4.12 million and the state capital of New South Wales. Sydney is one of the most multicultural cities in the world which reflects its role as a major destination for immigrants to Australia. According to the Mercer cost of living survey, Sydney is Australia’s most expensive city, and the 21st most expensive in the world.