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Culture shock is inevitable when moving to a new place like Australia. While no one is immune to this feeling, understanding Aussies’ way of life will better prepare you for a new environment. You’ll get used to the locals’ habits in no time. The question is, what are Australian habits everyone ought to learn before moving there? Let’s find out below!
Aussies Love Going Barefoot
One Australian habit that will shock foreigners is their affection for going barefoot. Strolling around public places during summer without footwear is very common in Australia, particularly for the younger generations. You will even see a lot of locals shoeless at cafes, petrol stations, or even shopping centres.
The reason is that public areas here are often less unclean or damp than other locations across the globe. At a spiritual level, going barefoot is like an Australian way of paying respect to the land. Even it becomes a pre-match ritual for the Australian cricket team. It is regarded as a way of capturing the earth’s positive energy.
Australians Enjoy Barbecues and Picnics
Barbecues and picnics are huge traditions in Australian culture. Locals eagerly look forward to weekend getaways, and this great barbie (Australian slang for barbecue) plays a significant role in their leisure time. This tradition is so huge that you can find many local parks and beaches with barbecue grills or picnic settings everyone can use for an outdoor barbie.
This “Australian way” of barbecue dates back around 40,000 years. Three main factors—cultural immigration, geographic location, and innate preferences—all contribute to the significance of Aussie’s eating style. The country’s warm climate also significantly impacts locals’ choice of outdoor cooking.
Related: Here’s Why Picnic at Hyde Park Sydney is Like No Other!
Australians are Known to Be Respectful and Relaxed
Australia is one of the world’s most diverse countries that favors egalitarianism. For that reason, respect is an essential value in the country. Australians believe that everyone should be fairly treated, recognized, and appreciated. They even say thank you or wave their hand to a driver when getting off the bus.
Aside from being a respectful society, Aussies are also known for their laid-back and relaxed attitude. Examples of this way of life can be seen through their sense of humor and the slang words they use daily. Again, it has something to do with the egalitarianism that has persisted in the country since the 19th century.
Australians Carry Water Bottles Everywhere
Next on the list of Australian habits that everyone should know is carrying water bottles. Australia is a warm-climate country; hence, they always have water bottles in their bags. While some bring bottled water, others get a reusable bottle to fill with free water in any establishment.
Yes, most establishments in the country provide free water. It’s tap water, but it’s safe to drink. So, whenever you go to a restaurant in Australia, you may ask for tap water, and it will be delivered in a jar.
Australians Have Great Respect for Animals
Australians take tremendous pleasure in being great neighbors and mates to humans and animals. The native animals of Australia are one of the many reasons that drive the enthusiasm of Australians for animal conservation.
There isn’t much national-leveled legislation regulating animal welfare; instead, the state and territorial governments are in charge of such laws. Most legislation is about the prohibition of animal cruelty and covers all types of animals other than fish.
Australians are Very Punctual
Australians may be recognized for their “no worries” lifestyle, but they are one of the world’s most punctual societies. This culture came down from German and British settlers who were known for being punctual. If someone is 10 minutes late to their meetings, they will inform the other person in advance.
That said, being on time is more vital in professional contexts than in social ones. Arriving early for an important meeting is okay. But if it is for a small gathering at someone else’s house, it should be added to your list of things not to do while in Australia.
There it is—a list of Australian habits everyone ought to know. Besides the above, Australia still has many other day-to-day traditions you will surely pick up when you move to the country.