The size range of the Australian Shelduck is 56–72 centimetres (22–28 in), have a wingspan of 94-132cm (37-52in), and weigh between 1.3-1.6 kilograms (2.8-3.5lb).

The Australian shelduck mainly breeds in southern Australia and Tasmania and is still fairly common.

As with other shelducks, this species has favourite moulting grounds, such as Lake George, New South Wales, where sizeable concentrations occur.

The Australian shelduck's primary habitat is lakes in fairly open country.

They eat tubers and other plant material, such as saltbush and samphire, along with a range of insects, crustaceans and molluscs.