depending on how much money you want to spend ask a builder for a quote to rake the ceiling

On a tight budget, might not be an option, but I like the idea!

I think you need some height in the furnishings. For example, full length curtains either side of each window, tall bookcases, etc.

We have exactly the same problem and the same paintwork too... I do wonder if the shiny ceiling paint we both have draws attention to the low height rather than making it recede?

How attached to the fireplace are you? I think its stark vertical darkness is actually emphasising the low ceiling. (Love your flooring!)

Low backed furniture and some nice tall elements The dining and ladder are your clues. Check out how they stage apartments, I’d have a desk on the free wall opposite tv. And change the peninsula to a big maybe square island to chew up space and give some bench seating
Hope you enjoy the house and views

Your house is screaming out for some doors that open out to the verandah and the view, doors will add height, hip windows do the opposite. And flat paint on the ceiling as mentioned

Love the suggestions so far. I’d add art on the walls to give the eyes something else to be drawn too.

I’d leave the window frames and do other things first. And gosh yes some doors onto deck, can’t believe you have to use front door!

Your house would change dramatically with large windows and doors floor to normal 2100 or 2400, you would never notice the ceiling as the view would take away from any negatives, how did they overlook that when designing the house. You didn't mention any aspect but full height curtains would certainly help insulate against the colder months. You are living near where I grew up, so you may need external shade for the hot months.

Do send some progress pics or after photos, you may well see big improvements with those relatively small changes.

Need to take focus from the ceiling to the walls. Ceiling fans get your attention!

New sliding door/s as suggested onto deck area. Taller windows as suggested by siriuskey if its in your budget. Curtains hung from ceiling to floor would also help, maybe a whole wall of curtains instead of just over windows and doors??

Remove existing fire place. New fire place to where AC is and make the fire place a focal point, perhaps a new built in fireplace, clad in stone/paint a cool colour/maybe a mantlepiece/maybe some awesome joinery either side.

I'd also look at some new paint, darker colours recede.

Velux roof windows might work? No idea of the cost

Jeez , I always seem to be different to everyone else . All I'd do is wallpaper the walls , probably in a burgundy or royal blue or forest green base ( depending on your personal taste and the colours you already have ) , with gold and beige vertical stripes or similar . It looks lower BECAUSE the walls are the same tone as the ceiling , and you actually have to look to see the joins . Make it easy for the eyes to differentiate , have the lines so they can see trhe height and tell the brain , job done . Bonus -- you've introduced some interest and some colour , which will add to the views .

You could try using colour to pull the focus off the ceiling to the walls. mid-tone colours should make the corners disappear, and maybe even a feature wall of a stronger shade. If you like neutrals then consider there are lots of soft colours that still feel like neutrals, soft celadon green, sage, grey/blues, or clay and nude tones all can work like neutrals. It's a cheap solution that could make a big difference if you find a nice colour.

I really like tint.paint they are an aussie online paint company with a lovely range. they can provide colour consults too. they have a great dusty pink called hygge and a grey called settle petal. I love their inner self.