The species Varanus gouldii gouldii is the most widespread and abundant goanna found throughout most of the mainland in Australia.

There are two sub species:

• V g flavirufus occupies the sandy desert region, and is usually paler and generally redder;
   
• V g gouldii occurs over the remaining regions of Australia, with both foraging widely over dry open habitats.

In the northern and western part of Australia, the Sand Goanna is active throughout the year, whilst in the south it is inactive during the cooler months. Goannas are good at climbing trees and are also good swimmers.
 

In late 2005, University of Melbourne researchers discovered that perenties and goannas and other monitors are venomous.

The goanna also feature prominently in Aboriginal mythology and dreamtime stories, as well as depicted in many pieces of Aboriginal art.