Christmas Jewel Spider
Austracantha minax

One of Australia’s most photographed spiders, found in all states and territories within shrubby coastal and inland woodlands. Mostly seen in summer, in semi social groups of dozens of webs hanging by just a few supporting strands. Unlike most in the animal kingdom it is the female who is the most colourful, with the male being smaller and lacking in prominent spines, resulting in it being rarely photographed.
 

Genus: Gasteracanthinae, Spiny Orb Weavers
These spiders have thorny abdomens with striking patterns and colour to deter predators. Also have strong, spiral webs.