Squeaky Beach in Wilsons Promontory National Park topped Tourism Australia's list from nearly 12,000 beaches across the country.

The Farm at Shellharbour in NSW and south-east Tasmania's Cockle Creek rounded out the top three.

Western Australia's Madfish Bay, in William Bay National Park on the south coast, took fourth spot.

In fifth is the little known Pulu Blan Madar Island - part of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands - about 2770 km north west of Perth and an Australian external territory.

The ranking was compiled by one of Tourism Australia's beach expert Brad Farmer.

"The list of 'best beaches' attracts headlines both here in Australia and in key international tourism markets around the world," he said.

"That's why I take the chance to uncover some of those destinations that might not be well-known but are home to some of Australia's, and in my opinion, the world's, best beaches."

Completing the top 10 were Cylinder Beach on Queensland's North Stradbroke Island, Lagoon Beach on Lord Howe Island, Long Beach in Robe, South Australia, Cow Bay in Far North Queensland, and finally, Casuarina Beach in Darwin.

Tourism Australia's managing director Phillipa Harrison said beaches were one of the biggest drivers for international visitors.

"The majority of travellers enjoy our aquatic and coastal environments in some way when they are here," she said.

"To maintain this strength it is important we continue to show Australia has the best beaches in the world and Brad plays a key role in doing just that by compiling a list which showcases the breadth and depth of our natural offering."

In 2023, South Australia's Stokes Beach was named the year's best by Tourism Australia.