A new way of life

Australians have a strong sense of identity and pride in their nation.

Those already used to a Westernised lifestyle will find it easy to adjust to the Australian way of doing things, but there are a few subtle but significant culture shocks that might affect the unsuspecting expat.

In a population of over 24 million people, 43% were either born overseas or have one parent who was born overseas. The initial population was made up of indigenous communities and those of British and Irish descent, who arrived much later. After World War II, people from Europe were encouraged to move to Australia to boost the workforce, from places like Greece, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Yugoslavia, Lebanon, and Turkey. In the last thirty years, Australia has opened up to South East Asia, so its identity is shifting even more towards a more multi-cultural, multi-faith society.

There are many principles that govern the Australian's approach to life. The adventurous, ‘have a go' spirit means things get done, and new projects are taken on with confidence. Sexual equality gives both sexes an equal footing in the workplace, so expect to see women in managerial and executive roles as a matter of course. Punctuality and politeness (for example, standing in queues) are expected, but when it comes to how you’re addressed, first names are commonly used and don't be offended when others are direct and to the point: it's not rudeness. Considered direct and impolite in some other areas of the world, looking into the eye of someone you are talking with means you are engaging with and listening to them, so it’s a good thing to do. Colloquialisms and slang are common, as is colourful language and cracking jokes. Try not to take yourself, and those around you, too seriously.

Holidays are important to Australians, and two you need to be aware of are Australia Day on the 26^th January, to celebrate the first settlement by Europeans, and Anzac  Day (25 April), when Australians remember those who fought for their nation in World War I. In addition, individual states and territories have their own special days, for example, the residents of Melbourne have an extra day off (and often the weekend before too) for the Melbourne Cup race.

Despite a reputation for enjoying a few beers, the use of alcohol is surprisingly restricted in Australia. It is illegal to be drunk in pubs and clubs which can be pretty heavily enforced, even if you aren’t causing a fuss. You can’t drink in most public places (and there are whole areas which are dry zones), including the beach. A lot of supermarkets and corner shops don’t sell alcohol; you have to go to a bottle shop (or bottle-Os as they are called).

The Australian values statement and Life in Australia book

Covering the country’s views on freedom, dignity, religion, law, democracy, equality, and the spirit of egalitarianism, the statement is a commitment to mutual respect, tolerance, fair play and compassion and must be signed as part of the permanent and provisional (sometimes the temporary) visa application process. Find more details from the Australian border authority.

Before you sign, you are required to have read or have had explained to you the Life in Australia booklet, again, downloadable from the Australian Department of Immigration and Border control website.

Education

There are two types of school — government (state) and non-government (private) — and about two-thirds of Australian children go to state schools. Education for these children is free in name only, as most schools will charge a voluntary contribution. Parents also have to pay for stationery, books, school uniform, sports equipment, school trips and any other items relevant to their studies.

Non-government schools charge from around  $21,000 (AUD) to $35,000 (AUD) a year (£13,000 GBP/$16,000 USD to £21,800 GBP/$26,600 USD). The government subsidises places as it acknowledges these children won’t be going through state-funded education and they have a useful website with more information about curriculum, what you can expect from the system, as well as a directory of state schools here.

The great outdoors

For those from a cooler, more temperate climate, the idea of Australia and dangerous animals go hand in hand. It is reassuring to learn that although the country is home to many species of dangerous creatures, across all of Australia, only about 3,800 people go to hospital each year because of a bite or sting and out of those thousands, only 2-3 people will die after a snake bite and 3-5 from a sting. Bees are by far the biggest danger when it comes to bites and stings. Snakes are more likely to keep out of your way, and only 10-20% of snakebites have enough venom to hurt the recipient. Along the shore, stingrays, jellyfish, and stinging fish can injure, with 1000 people hospitalised between 2002 – 2005, and shark attacks are incredibly rare. Considering the country has over 23 million people, injury from wild animals is very unlikely.

On a lighter note, Australia is known for its great climate, perfect for lots of sporting events and a barbeque culture — the kind that encourages like-minded people to come together. Expect there to be lots of outdoor activities throughout the year because the climate is so mild.

Renowned for being one of the world’s premier surfing destinations, it’s host to national and international tournaments, home to some of the world’s most famous surf brands and a whole subculture since the 1960s — brought to the subcontinent by a Hawaiian in 1915. As a sport, it’s overseen by Surfing Australia. In line with the ‘have a go’ spirit, this sport extends to adaptive surfers and surfers for life with everyone encouraged to learn how to engage with this physically and mentally beneficial sport.

Not just about surfing, the Australian way of life centres around getting out and getting active in the sun. There’s a common culture of commuting by bike, watersports and enjoying cultural events in the open. For those used to a cooler, more inclement climate, it opens up a whole new way of life.

Driving

Before setting out, find out whether you can drive using a license from your home country. For example, those from the UK can drive in Australia on a UK license, providing they remain a temporary overseas visitor, and they have no disqualifications. Becoming a permanent resident changes things somewhat, as within three months you'll need to obtain a local license to drive, but regulations vary from state to state (find out more here).

Quarantine

Australia has strict controls on what you can bring into the country. Put in place to protect humans, animals, and plant life, the rules are stringently enforced and breaking them will result in items being confiscated and destroyed. You may also receive a huge fine. Expect to be given an opportunity to declare anything you are unsure of on the incoming flight, and for more information, check out the Australian government’s department of agriculture website here.

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