Australian Culture

The Australian Culture

The Australian culture is considered “laid back” and a bit more relaxed then some international cultures.  There are notable characteristics between etiquette, lifestyle and values of Australians and other cultures.  Defining distinguishes between levels of authority, for example, can be difficult at times as Australians can be be informal a lot.

Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• When addressing people that are the same age or younger then you you can use their first name. For people older than you, you should use Mr, Mrs or Miss and their last name, unless they request you use their first name.
• Formal greeting are “good morning”, “good afternoon”, “good evening”.  Informal greeting include “Hi” and “Hello”
• “Please” and “Thank you” should always be used when asking for something or being provided with something
• Australia is not as crowded as most other counties, therefore we are used to our personal space, so where possible try to stand at least an arm length away
• Australians dress casually, if an occasion for formal dress is required you will be told.  You are free to dress in your own cultural attire
• It is rude to push in line when queuing, you will need to wait your turn
• If running late, it is polite to call ahead and explain your absence
• Smoking is banned in most indoor entertainment places and wherever food and drink are served, even if outside, across Australia.  Ask before you start smoking.
• There is equality between individuals in all social, political and legal rights.  Equality is protected by law.
• Spitting is regarded as rude and insulting
• Littering in Australia is illegal and you can be fined
• Good table manners include no elbows on the table and use the cutlery provided