Social customs

As a tolerant society with people from many cultures, each person is encouraged to maintain and share their cultural beliefs and practices. Being aware of some common customs will help you to adapt to life in the local community.

When meeting someone for the first time, it’s usual to shake the person's right hand with your right hand. People who do not know each other generally do not kiss or hug when meeting. Many Australians look at the eyes of the people they are talking with. They consider this a sign of respect, and an indication that they are listening. It’s usual to address a new acquaintance using their title and family name – you may use their first name when they ask you to or use it in the introduction.

In the workplace and among friends, most Australians tend to be informal and call each other by their first names. Many Australians will also greet people with the slang term ‘G’day mate’.

Religion

Although the majority of Australians are Christian, many other religions are represented throughout the country. All major cities have synagogues, temples and mosques and most universities have their own religious groups on campus.

Aussie slang

As with all countries, Australia has a distinct and sometimes colourful local variation of English. Some examples you’ll encounter include:

• G’day mate — Hello friend!
• No worries, mate! — Not a problem, friend!
• The Bottle-o — Shop that sells beer and wine.
• Snags on the barbie — Cook sausages on a BBQ.
• Maccas — McDonalds
• Arvo — Afternoon.
• Drongo — fool, silly person.
• Fair dinkum — Honest, genuine.
• Bonza — Excellent.
• Stubby cooler — used to keep your drink cool in hot Aussie climate