Despite its vast land area, a significant majority of Australia's population (over 85%) is concentrated in urban areas, primarily along its southeastern and eastern coasts. Which major climate factor largely explains this distribution?

The correct answer to the question "Despite its vast land area, a significant majority of Australia's population (over 85%) is concentrated in urban areas, primarily along its southeastern and eastern coasts. Which major climate factor largely explains this distribution?" is Option C: More temperate climate and reliable rainfall.

The other options — A) Abundance of mineral resources, B) Proximity to major global shipping lanes, D) Historical colonial settlement patterns — are incorrect for this General Knowledge question. As explained above: The southeastern and eastern coasts of Australia offer a more temperate climate and reliable rainfall compared to the arid interior, making them more suitable for agriculture and human settlement.