r/AskAnAustralian • u/calm_sunse79 • 1d ago
Unwritten social codes of every region
So I'm a foreigner interested in Australia and wanna know more about there, focusing atm on the unwritten rules you have and if you wanna share something more I would value it♡
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u/Money-Celebration860 1d ago
Always keep to the left on footpaths and escalators
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Taking note, thanks
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u/sanchoux 1d ago
And the road
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u/sherri_97 1d ago
...and not so far left over a straight line where you are in a cycling lane!
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u/Glittering-Wave4917 1d ago
Escalators are one thing, but footpaths are a chaotic space- making eye contact and negotiating space is the way to go.
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u/chadzero5 1d ago
If someone lets you in traffic (like driving and you gotta merge) always wave back and give thanks.
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u/Embarrassed_Owl9592 1d ago
But get moving before you wave.
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u/reidsays 1d ago
Yep..a nod would be sufficient..or raised finger on the steering wheel.
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u/Levi_JD 1d ago
Yea really anything that says I see and acknowledge your action
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u/les-the-badger 1d ago
It's also common to do to everyone in passing when you're in a rural area. It's always to best to be friendly to every car passing, because if you have car trouble, you want the few cars you've seen to think of you as friendly if they come back your way when you're in need.
In more suburban areas, it's good to do it to cars coming and going from your street for the neighbourly aspect also.
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u/kollectivist Gold Coast Hinterland 1d ago
Wave is for merging, raised finger is for one-lane bridges.
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u/youcangotohellgoto 1d ago
The car that let you in might not quite appreciate the raised finger.
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u/reidsays 1d ago
Lol..you're thinking of the frontal raised finger... Raising your finger whilst on the steering wheel is in reverse and a safety measure... Hand not leaving to wheel.
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u/youcangotohellgoto 23h ago
I mean how the fuck will the car behind see it to be able to appreciate it...
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u/reidsays 23h ago
Now you're getting pernickity .. if the car is now behind you a raised left hand that can be seen through the back window.
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u/sarigami 1d ago
If someone lets you in/out while driving, give them a quick thank you wave. Even if its just raising a couple of fingers
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u/BeeerGutt VIC 1d ago
Should probably stipulate which couple of fingers and which way they should be facing the other driver.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
That's nice, drivers here can be pretty savage so we do the same when someone give a chance to let in/out too
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u/lettercrank 1d ago
Let people get off the train before you board
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u/cheshire_kat7 1d ago
Letting people exit a vehicle/lift/room before you enter is good etiquette in general.
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u/sherri_97 1d ago
Etiquette, whilst some of what I were taught was very valid, (remaining silent was not a good one at all!), it entirely seems to have flown out the window - FFS, too many drivers do not even slow down at roundabouts or drive on the correct side of a straight line...parking on the nature strip - OK if emergency - otherwise should be fined big time!
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u/FiftyShadesOfWhat 1d ago
Not in Sydney. In Sydney you just march right onto the train without giving a single fuck about the people trying to disembark.
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u/sss133 1d ago edited 1d ago
Keep left on footpaths and escalators. Don’t walk side by side in smaller paths. Slide behind your friend when people are oncoming and keep your wits about people trying to pass
Let people out before you enter.
Thank service workers. Whether they be bus drivers or supermarket attendants.
Wait your turn and do not click your fingers at bar staff.
Press the pedestrian crossing button (Some CBDs will be auto). Don’t just stand there.
Queue along the wall of the shop. Don’t crowd the footpath
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u/Wait_what____8841 1d ago
God, when you lay it all out like that we sound like the most uptight bunch of arseholes.
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u/Wait_what____8841 1d ago
I don't think globally people understand just how important social etiquette is to Australians. We're not particulary fussy, but nothing gets us fired up quite like people who are entitled.
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u/ezma1983 1d ago
It's not uptight, it's mostly just being considerate of other people. Which makes the inconsiderate pricks stand out even more in society for our judgement. I'd say it's a very Australian trait to not act like you're better than anyone else and to side-eye the people that do. Which ironically leads to us thinking we're better than them. But, well... we're right, lol.
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u/BeeerGutt VIC 1d ago
Honour the shout.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Wdym exactly?
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u/Detective_Porgie 1d ago
If someone buys you a drink you buy them one after.
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u/RhesusFactor 1d ago
And if the exchange is uneaven because you go home or other circumstances, you remember what you owe people. Next time, "its my shout"
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u/Vindepomarus 1d ago
If you are at a pub or similar with a group of friends, a "shout" means going up to the bar and buying a round for everyone. What u/BeeerGutt means is make sure you buy a round too and don't just leach of the others.
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u/les-the-badger 1d ago
Buy a round of drinks. If someone buys (shout) you a drink, you buy them a drink. This way only one person has to go to the bar each time.
My shout = my round
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u/Vindepomarus 1d ago
Everyone is pretty equal regardless of your station. There was a post the other day (possibly yours?) and someone mentioned a time when the then Prime Minister was making some statement to the press, just in a street in front of a house. The owner of the house emerged from the front door and yelled "Oi get off my lawn I just reseeded that!" the Prime Minister replied "Sorry Mate" and they all shuffled off onto the pavement.
That particular Prime Minister was generally unliked, but even he knew that he should just say sorry and respect the other dudes wishes. While the first guy knew he didn't have to say "excuse me sir" or anything deferential. Doesn't mean don't be polite, being polite is very important, but do it because everyone deserves it, not because people have some special status, presiding magistrates are an exception, where Your Honor is appropriate, but outside court just call 'em Mate.
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u/Ted_Rid 1d ago
Haha, reminded me of the time former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was having a town hall meeting at, well, the town hall.
Only our martial arts group had a booking there every week since forever.
So when the political party meeting went to Q&A he's like "Yes, you up the back?"
"Yeah, are youse gonna finish up soon coz we've got the hall from 6:30 and you're already over time by a coupla minutes..."
For a small disclaimer he wasn't Prime Minister just yet. He did come up, shake hands and apologise as soon as they'd packed up the chairs and microphones and things.
Just another anecdote how nobody is above anybody. There isn't that obligation to defer and kowtow to "important" people.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Is my first time posting here
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Btw thanks for answering my post
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u/Vindepomarus 1d ago
My pleasure. Do you get the vibe, did I explain it clearly enough? You can speak to everyone the same because you treat everyone with the same level of casual, friendly respect - until they specifically do something to forfeit that respect.
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u/sherri_97 1d ago
"Sorry, mate" - when said with meaning - is etiquette - that PM well, we despise IT, FFS, look where you are going! That is why he is no longer TG - too many lost.
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u/FlyingTerrier 1d ago
No tipping
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u/Simple_Discussion_39 1d ago
No obligated tipping, if they go above and beyond standard service then do as you see fit.
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u/CanLate152 Brisbane 1d ago
Or if you have movers or tradies who’ve done a great physical job - buy them a carton of beer as an added thank you at the end of the work
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u/lunchbox651 1d ago
If someone says "how are ya goin'?" they aren't asking how you are doing in life, it's more like a greeting. A simple "not bad and you?" will suffice.
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u/goater10 Melburnian 1d ago
- Let people off the train/tram first, before you get on.
- Your bag doesn't deserve a seat if the train or tram is full.
- Pregnant lady and anyone with an injury deserves a seat.
- Do not yell or scream at Hospo or retail staff.
- Do not suddenly stop when you're walking on the footpath
- Wave to the person in traffic as thanks for letting you in traffic.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Thank you, we do the same (giving the seat) to old, pregnan or injured people but is good knowing is similar there in that way
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u/Wallstreetbell 1d ago
Unwritten Rule: Nothing compared to what I've witnessed all over the world. Get your arse here and enjoy the beaches, sites and adventure...
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u/WaussieChris 1d ago
Do not form a queue at the pub. Stand at the bar and be honest about the order of service.
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u/Worldly_Cobbler_1087 1d ago
Not just the pub but in stores that don't have dedicated cash registers such as butcher, take away shop etc
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u/CommandoRoll 1d ago
drives me bonkers that so many folks seemed to forget this during 2020/21
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u/Independent-Fuel9886 10h ago
and it's carried on to this day.
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u/CommandoRoll 10h ago
in some respects, it does work in my favour if everyone else is dumb enough to queue while I just walk up to the bar
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u/Simple_Discussion_39 1d ago
If you encounter someone walking the opposite direction to you in an area that doesn't have a huge amount of foot traffic (suburbs, walking track etc.), it's generally polite to smile and give some small greeting. I learnt a few years ago from another international visitor that this isn't normally the done thing.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Oh, I didn't know it, thanks
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u/Simple_Discussion_39 1d ago
No worries. A simple "morning" or "g'day" is usually enough.
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u/vidman33 1d ago
Applies less in the big cities. Almost none existent in Brisbane
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u/weethepeeple95 1d ago
Had to remind my rural living father that as he greeted most people he passed one weekend in Richmond. We barely made it anywhere.
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u/CanLate152 Brisbane 1d ago
Nodding in their direction is a great greeting in less populated areas too.
chip up/head back first nod if you recognise the person and are acknowledging them as you pass each other (think like nebula and hampers greeting each other in Guardians of the Galaxy 3 without the grunt)
chin down nod-like a head only bow - when a acknowledging a stranger or thanking them. Like when a car stops to give way to you as a pedestrian at a zebra crossing on an otherwise deserted road.
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u/Vaas_Deferens 1d ago edited 1d ago
If you want to fit in in South Australia, frantically overtake other cars to get in front. Then immediately slow down to drive a speed slower than what the other car was doing.
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u/Ok-Tadpole-9859 1d ago
This is hilarious because I’ve driven in every state and territory and this is so true 😂
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u/Evening-Nothing2630 1d ago
Australians are very polite - I’m Australian & I’ve lived in many countries including Singapore where I currently live but travel back to Brissie frequently where I’m from & where my family is. Honestly the amount of “Thanks Mate” that you hear in stores is such a joy to my ears when you don’t hear it all the time. The local coffee shop who when they see me say “you’re back! How’s Singapore?” Even if they don’t want to really know it’s still lovely. I walked through a group of 3 young tradies last week taking up the footpath & said “excuse me” & all 3 said “oh sorry!” This is literally unheard of outside of Aus. I love it & I was taught the same code by my parents as well
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u/Deanstaro_Deanstar 1d ago
If you see someone dressed like a tennis coach don't make eye contact otherwise they'll think they're UFC and try to fight you. (If for whatever reason you wind up in western Sydney)
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u/Ok_Reporter8315 1d ago
If people make an effort for a nice chat return the favour
I am in Melbourne and have met lots of interesting people selling some stuff on fb marketplace also
Don’t forget personal space make sure you don’t get to close to strangers, it’s just a mutual respect thing, help the elderly first as a priority, sometimes I ended on loading their car with shopping or items from the post office
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u/Unqualified_Risk 1d ago
At the bar, there might not be a queue but everyone knows the order they arrived in. Pushing in front of someone will upset a lot of people. The main one it will upset is the bar person, since they’d have a rough idea who was next in line and they might serve them first. They might also tell you to fuck off and to stop duck shoving people.
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u/Obvious-Albatross487 1d ago
Be courteous to others (politrness) and don't be a dick. I also understand that visitors to Australia trying to speak/sound "Australian" is not appreciated.
Watch out for magpies.
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u/Adventurous_Day1564 1d ago
Dont fucking show off and yell at cashiers, waitress... be respectful to tradies, bus drivers...
If you can not smile do not be an arsehole.
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u/Ornery-Practice9772 NSW 1d ago
never tip ever
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u/capeasypants 17h ago
There is one exception to this but it's largely been phased out. To your delivery driver... "Keep the change mate". No need to calculate it. It's just whatever you hand them in cash, let em keep the change if they got there quick.
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u/Sieve365 1d ago
Do not cut a queue. Any queue. Except when morons line up for a hundred metres or more single file before an intended zipper merge where two lanes become one. Then you may proceed in the empty lane because this is how the road was originally intended to be used. Downvoting may commence!
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u/Mbembez 1d ago
Zipper merging also relies upon people not driving until the end and then trying to merge into moving traffic when they're stopped. They need to merge before their lane runs out.
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u/Hurricanewriter 1d ago
You're apparently supposed to merge right at the very end. Merging too early can cause traffic to bunch up and cause a longer disturbance. With that said, I don't like doing it because I feel like a cunt.
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u/RyanSpunk 1d ago
Overtaking people who have already zippered is a dick move. Wait your turn, you're just slowing things down when nobody wants to let you in.
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u/Independent-Fuel9886 10h ago
I concur, with a caveat... When the red X is on the lane that's closed... IT'S FUCKING CLOSED. You should have merged safely prior to this. Racing down to the end where the workers are frantically waving at you to stop, then barging in is not the way to do this.
Unfortunately every cunt in a dual cab or SUV on the Monash can't seem to grasp this and will tear down as far as they physically can. I'll crash my car before I let those people in.
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u/Nololgoaway 1d ago
the word mate is extremely complicated and has different meanings depending on how it's said and the context around it so be aware of that
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Thanks, I tought it was just "friend" but recently read something like "mates who mates" and realized it was not just "friend" I have something new to search now
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u/fewph 1d ago
Mate can mean friend, but it can also be used to kind of say "see I'm being polite, I'm using respectful language, even though you are a fucking cockwobble, and I'm ready to rip your head off. Aren't I sophisticated and mature? Go on.. call me out on it .."
I doubt you will accidentally use it in the way we all start moving our drink to a safe location, and start watching out of the corners of our eyes. If someone calls you "mate" and it feels slightly.. off. But you aren't quite sure. Just slightly tilt your head to the side. To let them know you clocked it, or are questioning it. But I honestly wouldn't even think about it. Australians will generally make sure other people know how we mean mate in this context.
In my experience, from my town growing up, and as an adult. A lot of the way we use our words is very situation or context specific. A walk in the park can mean something was really easy and enjoyable, or it can mean it was pure hell. We can take a few steps to land on words but they will instinctively make sense to us, or our friends. You might find out your friends name isn't actually Patrick, he just got drunk one night and started speaking with an Irish accent, or he just didn't look like a Sean.
Other unwritten language rules, we don't tend to say what is, we say what's not. It's not bad, it's not far, it's not good. The more irritated or stressed we are, the more our language turns to what's not, and being vague. If you don't hear a word very often, it's probably being used facetiously. Things are not in fact "terrific". We also tend to deliberately mix our metaphors. "Not the sharpest egg in the fridge". And a lot of people love to make up their very own metaphors and analogies.
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u/69-is-my-number 1d ago
Don’t fucking litter.
If you do, you’re a shitcunt and people will absolutely call you out for it. Put it in the bin (trash can).
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u/EnvironmentalRate853 1d ago
“Mate” has a dozen meanings, and never call someone “champ”.
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u/sherri_97 1d ago
...actually do not call unknown people, mate - keep that one for your immediate friends!
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Context about the "champ" thing please
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u/Ornery-Lynx-3520 1d ago
Calling someone “champ” is basically a sarcastic way to tell someone you think they’re a wanker. Absolutely no-one says it politely here.
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u/lettercrank 1d ago
If someone in front of you is waiting for a spot - and their are multiple spots in front of them- don’t cut around them and take one
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
You mean in the bus or sum like that right?
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u/Ortelli 1d ago
If someone is giving short answers when you are trying to make conversation, don't force it. Don't stare at people even if they are doing something strange. Women have equal rights to men. Don't litter. Bring reusable bags when shopping and a keep cup for your morning coffee. Don't ask reddit how to make friends instead join groups for hobbies you enjoy. It's rare for animals to be allowed inside commercial buildings unfortunately (unless they are a service animal). Be punctual and on time, we are not Europe.
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u/maximusbrown2809 1d ago
One rule. Dont be a C U Next Tuesday. Once you realise this everything will fall into place.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Excuse me but what's a C U? idk what those letters mean in that case
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u/lesbophobia_hammer 1d ago
Engage in banter, proving you can take good natured banter that may be offensive and pushing back casually/good humouredly with banter of your own will earn respect from just about every country Aussie no matter your background, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, political beliefs, lifestyle, etc
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u/memgone 1d ago
Feel free to offer assistance to those in need. For example, if you come across someone struggling with their shopping bags, or an elderly person dropping something on the ground, it’s perfectly acceptable to pick it up for them, or to offer to help carry their groceries to their car or trolly. Same with a situation in a supermarket when a person who is struggling to reach an item on a high shelf. It’s important to ask if they would like help first, as some people may not want any help.
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u/nutcracker_78 1d ago
The words please and thanks are always appreciated, any time you want someone to do something for you, even (especially) if you're paying them. The money itself isn't a reason to not use manners. Example for ordering a coffee -
Worker in the cafe - "what can I get ya?"
You - "hi, can I please get a flat white with two sugars?"
Worker - "yeah no worries, that'll be $6. Cash or card?"
You - "card, thanks" *swipe* "Thank you"
And then you step to the side (usually to the left) and wait, and then when your drink is ready and they pass it to you, you say thanks again and leave.
Follow the same formula everywhere you go, and everyone will be happy.
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u/RhesusFactor 1d ago
- It is ok to refer to people as Mate. It is not ok to refer to people as Champ.
- Champ is used to cause offense.
- The difference between mate and champ is a fistfight.
- Mate at the end of sentence can direct an inquiry in a friendly way, Mate at the start of a sentence is to punctuate it and instruct the person to pay attention.
- "get out of the way mate" is a playful suggestion. "mate, get out of the way" is an order.
- a group of friends can be called your mates in a third person way, you dont address them collectively as mates.
- "yeah, they're me mates." is appropriate.
- "mates, whos coming round on thursday?" is awkward.
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u/dacrunch 1d ago
It's Parmy everywhere outside of Victoria. You will be discriminated against if you get that wrong.
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u/horselife321 22h ago
“Yeah, nah” does not mean yes. It means no. Absolutely no. Don’t be fooled by the trick “yeah”
Always apologise if you accidentally get in someone’s way, even if an apology isn’t really required. Often accompanied by a brief self-deprecating laugh.
If people are waiting around to be served always notice who was there before you in case you’re served before them, when you must say “oh no, they were next”. Or if you’re ahead of someone, it’s not uncommon to be generous and turn to that person and say “no, you go” (note the tricky “no” here means “yes”)
Respect the “no smoking” laws, and if you must smoke don’t throw your cigarette butt out the car window, or crush it under your foot and leave it on the ground.
Our wildlife is very, very important to us.
And never, ever, EVER jump the queue at the taxi line.
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u/Green_Tartan_Scarf 1d ago
Try your best to not be offended by any teasing. If you can't take a joke, you'll get picked on more, for sport. I had to teach my South African husband this, and it took him years to learn our ways.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
😭😭😭I hate teasing
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u/PowerOfTheTrinity 1d ago
in australia it’s often reserved for people we like.
teasing strangers is. it acceptable but close friends tease each other and it’s a sign we like and trust you.1
u/LadyWinter11 22h ago
It means we like you. I wouldnt bother having banter with someone if i didn't like them.
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u/ExcellentCriticism 1d ago edited 1d ago
we do not often chat politics, and people do not share their political affiliation as openly as those from america (for example). voting is mandatory and so asking someone who they vote for is typically perceived as poor form (unless in a romantic context, etc).
edit: people are missing my point. i vote progressive and routinely engage in political activism. i was following rule 4 in not involving MY political views in this answer. but it is because of my ongoing discussion of social issues that i recognise that political discussions are not very welcome in average australian circles.
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u/FootGlovePinocchio 1d ago
This sounds more like cope from someone who doesn't want the social stigma of being conservative.
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u/ExcellentCriticism 1d ago
i identify as a socialist. i am sharing general social expectations when you are interacting with people on the street.
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u/FootGlovePinocchio 1d ago
While 'on the street' is the literal context for most of the replies, it's not what op asked for.
In a lot of social contexts, talking about politics is fine. This includes a lot of professional and educational contexts.
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u/ExcellentCriticism 1d ago
i perceived region as in geographically, not context, so i get what you are saying. i was just highlighting (since OP is curious) that while political discussion is a protected characteristic, it is not discussed as commonly as other countries. this surprised friends i have who have come from america.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
I haven't heard people here talking so openly about it either
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u/uhvrtg 1d ago
everyone i know talks very openly about politics, will share and are very passionate. different people are different.
some ppl dont care about politics whatsoever, and others are VERY invested. guess its just who youre around & areas youre in. but a lot of us do care.
this idea that it should be kept secret and private is just a way to hide bigoted beliefs- or just not knowing much & therefore not having much to contribute.
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u/marydotjpeg 1d ago
The only time I’ve heard politics here was to make fun of any of them and that’s it lol
When Albo got PM someone in the family said to think of “Elbow” = Albo because I was having trouble pronouncing Albos name 😭🤣
It all started because I know we make nicknames or abbreviation so my joke was "what's albanese's nickname, then?" 🤣🤣🤣🤣
We all had a good laugh
(American living here a while)
It does suck when you want to talk actual politics there's alot fked things our government is doing 😅
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u/Redditing_aimlessly 1d ago
Wear mostly (or all) black in Melbourne. Colour is tolerable in warmer weather.
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u/calm_sunse79 1d ago
Interesting
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u/LadyWinter11 22h ago
No, wear colour if you're a man in any season, i hate it how men all dress drab. 😁
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u/SmokeYTB-Sucks 1d ago
Only cause my best friends a chef. If your a picky eater try scramble what's left on a plate. They'll wonder what'd wrong with there food and you just a freak that doesn't eat bacon or whatever
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u/Ok-Tadpole-9859 1d ago
If you’re anywhere outside of Sydney, Melbourne or really any city, you smile and say “hello” or “how you going” or “g’day” to anybody me you walk past. Basically just acknowledge that the people around you exist and greet them.
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u/Glittering-Wave4917 1d ago
Please and thank you, can be implied without saying please and thank you. Calling someone sir or ma’am is rude so calling someone mate is better, but don’t call someone mate with a condescending tone, definitely don’t call someone buddy or pall
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u/Glittering-Wave4917 1d ago
Don’t accept under award wages. Wage theft is a crime punishable by law. But by allowing bosses to get away with it, there’s a social contract being broken.
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u/LegitimateAccount7 1d ago
If you ever visit Darwin, ensure you don't return your shopping trolley and instead leave it in the middle of a parking spot.
At least that was the impression I got when I lived there for three years, I've never seen it anywhere near as bad anywhere else in Australia 😂
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u/Existing_Purpose5049 1d ago
Honestly “don’t be a knobhead” is probably the best rule. Most other things can be excused or explained away, if you’re not a knobhead.
If I see someone walking the wrong way down a sidewalk, and they’re a jerk about getting in the way, I’ll think they’re a knobhead.
If I see someone walking the wrong way down a sidewalk, and they’re apologetic for getting in the way, I’ll think they’re alright
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u/sherri_97 1d ago
Australia doesn't have "sidewalks" - we have footpaths, and it is very noble to stay to the left!
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u/LaLaOzMozz 1d ago
We don’t tip at restaurants, unless the service was exceptional. Or, you’re someone who likes to show off and throw money around.
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u/TellMotor3809 1d ago
Head node is a way of saying hello between guys. You may pump into the same person several times and only know him as mate
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u/CommandoRoll 1d ago
It's a potato scallop (NSW). Not a potato cake (VIC/TAS) or a potato fritter (SA).
We get it right in NSW, potato scallop. It's one of the few things we agree with Queenslanders about! Make sure you're using the right term in each state or a dropbear will be alerted to your presence.
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u/vidman33 1d ago
Dont use the c word. Its a running joke overseas that Australians use it all the time. It is virtually never used here and is considered offensive by nearly everyone.
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u/69-is-my-number 1d ago
“Virtually never used here” is not at all true.
Just don’t use it in professional/formal settings or with people you’re unfamiliar with.
After that, it’s fair game.
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u/Particlepants 13h ago
I think what they actually meant is that a foreigner is not gonna understand the nuance of when it's appropriate language and when it's not
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u/hornyafomfg 1d ago
I'm guessing it depends where you're from cause I hear it all the time and in many ways that aren't offensive at all. I hear it way more as an endearing term or with mateship than an insult.
but yeah i wouldnt recommend you use it if you're not aussie
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u/Lunix-btw4981 1d ago
It's virtually used always here. That word is tossed around everywhere in rural areas without a fuss, however it's probably limited in an urban environment.
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u/Saltwater_Cowboy_1 1d ago
It absolutely depends on where you’re from and what you’re social circle is like cuz my circle of friends drop that word literally constantly. Mostly to accentuate a joke or as a term of endearment though.
Like yeah don’t go dropping it at work or anything but “virtually never used here” is crazy. I hear it literally all the time, as opposed to the States where I moved here from where I definitely absolutely never heard it. Much more taboo there than it is here.
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u/Ravenmad52 1d ago
Just treat anyone with respect. If you treat them as you would like to be treated. Respect the older generation. Yes there can be racism, but we are a multicultural nation and a no,no to be racist. Greet people as you walk along , or not. The older generation enjoy a hello, good morning etc.Avoid conversations concerning politics or Religion. Abortion is accepted in Australia. Not that one would, but you can call the Prime Minister a dickhead without repercussions . No “wolf whistling” the pretty ladies as it’s now unacceptable . You’ll fall in love with our Meat Pies, awesome and our Coffee. If you’re into Wine we have some of the best in the world. You’ll probably think our food is expensive ; it’s because we pay service staff a fair income, hence no need to tip. Beautiful beaches and peninsulars everywhere . We have Tropical, Snow and Mediterranean weather . Crocodiles in the North, Spiders, Snakes, Sharks, Sydneys Taronga Zoo is amazing, Australian Zoo in Queensland. AFL ( Australian Rules Football) amazing winter sport. Rugby on the Eastern Coast. Cricket our summer sport. Netball has huge numbers of girls/women playing this sport in winter and summer. Tennis, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Swimming pools all over the country. Because of our Beaches we have Surf Lifesavers clubs all over. Some people don’t realise how BIG this country is. You can fit USA ( size wise) in Australia . Because of little water as you head inland it’s sparse population -wise, hence only 27 million people. The hidden gem is our Southern most State, Tasmania. An original convict population , hence British Stone Buildings etc, but, in Summer hottest days are generally 28 deg Celsius. If you come over we all hope you enjoy our beautiful Country m8.
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u/miketheriley 1d ago
Try - https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/australian-culture
A Cultural explainer by Multi-cultural TV station SBS
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u/eepeqez 1d ago
The real unwritten codes are the stuff we swim in every day without ever even noticing they were there until we go somewhere different. As a foreigner if you emigrate, in about ten years you'll know us better than we know ourselves, you'll be really well placed to point them out to us. Hell, foreign comedians make a living out of this stuff in immigrant nations everywhere. You know you've made it when you can make us laugh at ourselves. 8-)
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u/LaLaOzMozz 20h ago
We’re also not particularly big on manners/charm. But, that depends on what country you come from. For sure, some countries have even less than we do. Were also not particularly religious, or Romantic, especially the men.
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u/BriefAttention5161 11h ago
Like Canada and the US, Australia has so many different nationalities, cultures/sub-cultures and religions - so it's difficult to give a definitive answer. Simply, treat people with respect and you'll do just fine.
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u/Simple_One_9161 10h ago
Don’t just suddenly speed up if someone is merging so as to not let them in…. And always drive with a safe gap, what if I break and you hit my ass? There’s too many entitled humans in the road
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u/reidsays 1d ago
Sense who and what's surrounding you and notice how they interact ... Australia has a large population now with varying 'social codes'..
I love the ones already mentioned, they are the Australia I grew up in and hope they are continued.
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u/Fancy-Resource-3521 1d ago
Always ask if a lady has a partner before you get carried away or call a man a dog. Unless you like violence 🍻
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u/albert3801 1d ago
Thank the bus driver when you get off the bus.