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Getting along with Australians |
Like any other society, Australian society includes people who are friendly and people who are not, and so on. Also, Australian society includes people representing large numbers of ethnic, religious, socioeconomic, age, occupational, and other types of groups. People in any of these various groups are likely to have ideas and opinions that differ from those of people in other groups. Even with this diversity, it is possible to mention certain characteristics which, in general, describe attitudes and practices that are common among Australians and that tend to distinguish Australians from people who have grown up in other cultures. Keep in mind that the following remarks are generalisations, and that you will find individuals who are exceptions to any or all of them.
Aussie Customs
Australia is a young and diverse nation and Australian people come from many different cultural backgrounds. As you settle in and make friends you will find that there is no such thing as a 'typical' Australian. You will encounter a wide range of social customs, habits and perspectives on life that may be new and different from what you have experienced before. This section may help you to prepare for some of these new experiences.
Greetings
Australia is considered to be a relaxed, informal society. When greeting others in most situations, students and young people say 'Hello' or 'Hi'. Sometimes they will say 'How's it going?' or 'G'day'. In more formal situations they usually shake hands the first time they meet. 'Good morning', 'Good afternoon' or 'Pleased to meet you' are formal greetings.
When you say goodbye to someone informally, 'See you later' or 'See you around' are common. In a more formal situation you could say: 'It was a pleasure to meet you' or 'It was nice to meet you'.
First names are used more frequently in Australia than in some other countries. Australians will often greet their friends and even people they don't know (both male and female) with 'Hey mate' or 'How's it going guys'. An Australian may encourage you to use their given name (eg: "Call me Susan"), in which case you will not need to continue to use their formal title. Often, Australian academics will encourage you to use their given name. The use of 'nicknames' (or pet names) is very common. A nickname is usually used among friends, and is a sign of acceptance and friendship.
The formal title or family name is usually only used in formal situations, when meeting someone for the first time, or when speaking to someone in a professional capacity e.g professor, medical doctor, politician or VIP. Titles such as Mr, Mrs, Ms or Dr are used with the surname or family name (eg, Graham Williams is Mr Williams).
In Australia it is customary to look someone in the eye when you are talking to him/her. It is not insulting to do this, but instead reflects that you are sincere and interested in what is being said. Australians will make direct eye contact with everyone, whether the person is an equal or of different status or social position. Children are taught to look directly at adults. In Australia, it is not considered insulting if someone gives you something with his or her left hand.
Conversation
English is Australia's national language.
One problem commonly faced by students new to Australia is the use of slang. Slang is used unconsciously by many Australians and can sometimes sound like a completely new language. Here are some common examples and their translations:
- G'day = Good day / Hello
- See ya later = See you later / Goodbye
- You right? = Do you need assistance?
- D'you reckon? = Do you think so?
- Good on ya! = Well done!
- Ocker = Australian
For more on Aussie slang go to http://www.koalanet.com.au/australian-slang.html
If someone says to you: "G'day mate, how you going?" they are actually using a common greeting and asking after your welfare - although they may not expect an answer. It's more like a friendly remark.
Australians also have a tendency to run words together. You may also find that Australians speak quickly and abbreviate or shorten words. For example, 'University' becomes 'uni,' 'breakfast' becomes 'brekkie,' 'tutorial' becomes 'tute.'
You may find the Australian pronunciation of many familiar English words is quite different from what you are used to or expect - don't worry, with time the language will become more familiar, and listening and speaking will become easier. If you don't understand what people are saying, please ask them to explain - they won't mind.
If you think you might be missing significant information in lectures, make sure you seek help. If you require assistance speak with your lecturers, tutors or an International Student Advisor.
Unlike some cultures, Australians are often very direct and open in their speech and mannerisms. While some students may feel at first uncomfortable, it is important to understand that Australians are not deliberately trying to be offensive.
Humour
Australians are renowned for having a 'dry' or 'laconic' sense of humour. The distinctive Australian sense of humour often involves light-hearted teasing, sometimes called 'rubbishing' or 'stirring'.
Humour is also centred around people who give the impression that they consider themselves superior, or who are different. You may find people will joke about your accent, clothes or habits. In the majority of cases you should not take offence at this teasing, but see it as a form of acceptance. If you are unsure seek the advice of a friend or International Student Advisor.
Don't necessarily expect to understand Australian humour immediately. As your knowledge of the language and culture improves, you will find you are increasingly able to join in the laughter!
Social Invitations
If you receive a formal written invitation that is accompanied by the letters RSVP you are being requested to make a prompt response, either by accepting or declining the invitation.
If a person offers to 'take' or 'shout' you to a drink or meal, they will pay for it.
If you are asked to 'join' or 'go with' someone or a group of people for a meal or to attend an entertainment venue, this suggests that you will be expected to pay for your own expenses.
If you are invited to a home for a meal you should ask if you can bring something or "bring a plate ". This will usually be something simple like a bottle of soft drink or a plate of food. Most young people's parties will be BYO (bring your own) which means everyone brings what they would like to drink or eat.
Barbecues are popular meals in Australia, especially in summer. Remember to take sunscreen and insect repelant.
Occasionally you may be asked to a social gathering where you are asked to 'bring a plate'. This means a plate of food for others to share, not an empty plate! Food from your home country would be appreciated.
If you have special reasons for not eating particular types of food, let your hosts know, so that they can make special arrangements for you.
It is not necessary to take a gift if you only go for dinner or a short stay - but do so if you wish to. If you are invited to join a celebration such as a birthday or for Christmas, take a small gift or a bunch of flowers.
An extra tip about food in Australia:
Don't confuse Vegemite (a yeast-based spread) with chocolate - the tastes are VERY different. Be sure to sample an Australian favourite chocolate biscuit, Tim Tams. If you are really daring find out about Adelaide's famous "pie floater!"
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