Australian Culture

Australian Culture and society

In Australia, you’ll notice differences to your own country. Australia has a casual, laid-back culture and whilst you will still encounter formal situations, day to day encounters are very casual. You may be used to very specific ways of addressing people of authority, status and of certain ages but don’t worry here are a few tips to get you started


Here are is advice on Australian culture:

• Introducing yourself and meeting others—In Australia the majority of people use other people’s first names when addressing them this is the case with people your own age, people younger than you and friends. When you are talking to someone that is older than you that you that you don’t well it is polite to greet them with their last name. However, if they introduce themselves by their first name it’s okay to use that.
• Greetings—Formal greetings are good morning, good afternoon and good evening Informal greetings are hello, hi, G‘day (for men) and you can also drop the ‘good’ in good morning, good afternoon etc. (You’ll pick other quickly just by the ways others around you are talking to each other)
• Please and thank you are used a lot when we are asking for something or receiving something, for example in a shop.
• Personal space — Because Australia is a big country, we are very conscious of our personal space, especially outside of the city. Farmer’s are known to talk to each with 3 - 4 metres separating them. It’s unusual to be in a situation where you must stand shoulder-to-shoulder with another person unless on some busy public transport. Try to leave a bit of space if you can.
• Dress—Australians are casual dressers. If you are required to dress more formerly you will be notified prior.
• Punctuality—if you can’t go to an appointment or somewhere where you have been invited, or are running late, it is good to notify the people that will be affected.
• Smoking—smoking is not allowed inside all buildings, bars, pubs and clubs, expect for a few casinos.
• Equality—Australia is a society that aims for egalitarianism, we believe everyone should be treated equally regardless of status.
• Spitting—spitting is generally seen as unacceptable behaviour and gross.
• Littering—If you are spotted littering you may be fined on the spot, it is better to look for a bin.
• Table manners—Australians usually use cutlery for meals at home or in restaurants (sometimes even with pizza). However if you are at a more informal gatherings such as a outdoor even, barbecue, or eating ‘finger food’ you can use your hands. If you are not sure, just look around you and see what others are doing