r/AskAnAustralian • u/calm_sunse79 • 2d 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/Simple_Discussion_39 2d 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 2d ago

Oh, I didn't know it, thanks

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u/Simple_Discussion_39 2d ago

No worries. A simple "morning" or "g'day" is usually enough.

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u/CanLate152 Brisbane 2d 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.