The Australian Flatback is a medium sized sea turtle that is less than 100cm (39 in) long and weighs 60-84 kg (60-190 lbs). The Australian Flatback gets its name for two reasons. One, the carapace (top shell) of the turtle is very flat, where as most other turtles have a distinct arch in their back. The second reason is the only place that this turtle is known to nest is along the coasts of Australia, although it might travel to other parts of the world during its life.

The Austalian Flatback's nesting season peaks from late November to early December and completed by January. The turtles are through hatching by March.

The flatback is carnivoris and eats mostly soft bodied organisims like jellyfish. Flatbacks can be found in and around coral reefs such as the Great Barrier Reef.

Although the Austrailian Flatback is not nationally considered endangered, it is now facing the same threats as other sea turtles and can be concidered 'vulnerable in some areas. Things such as indigestible garbage and shrimp nets without Turtle Excluder Devices (TED's) are a hazard to the turtle. Also, the nesting beaches for these turtles, as well as others, is being eroded and destroyed by humans.