Understanding Australian Culture and Society

December 15, 2023

If you’re relocating to Australia for a career move, it’s important to do your research ahead of time to gain some understanding of Australian culture and customs. While many people dream of vacationing in a country like Australia and touring famous sites, such as the Sydney Opera House, moving abroad for a job relocation is a much more intense commitment.

It’s important to arrive with some understanding of what life in modern Australia may look like and what to expect from Australian society when you arrive, from professional norms and the type of government to the diverse cultural makeup of the nation.

What is Australia like?

Located in the southern hemisphere between the Pacific and Indian oceans, Australia is one of the largest nations on earth by land mass. It has six states—Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, and Queensland—and two territories, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital territory. The Australian continent is the smallest of the seven continents on earth and its terrain is characterized largely by semiarid or desert landscapes.

The federal government of Australia is based around a parliamentary system, like the United Kingdom. Demographically speaking, Australia’s population has a lot of cultural diversity, with roughly a third of its population born overseas, and a stunning half of all people with at least one parent who was born overseas.

A large proportion of Australian people have European ancestry, thanks to its history of British settlers as well as an influx of migrants from southern Europe after World War II. In addition to Europeans, there are many other different immigrant groups, including a large proportion from Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, the Indigenous population of Australia accounts for roughly 3% of the present-day population. Indigenous groups include both the Aboriginal people—who are indigenous to mainland Australia—as well as the Torres Strait Islander people, who are indigenous to the Torres Strait archipelago, located in the state of Queensland.

Aboriginal culture is a big part of the national identity in Australia, and Indigenous Australians have rich cultural practices and linguistic traditions going back tens of thousands of years. That being said, the Indigenous population has massively decreased since European settlement, and the reckoning over how these communities were and continue to be marginalized is at the center of Australia’s national conversation today.

Being sensitive and aware of these issues during your time in Australia is essential, as is finding ways to learn about the many Aboriginal languages, traditional lands, and diverse cultural practices.

Business culture and workplace etiquette in Australia

In keeping with Australian society at large, professional norms in Australia are relatively casual as well. That said, Australians value directness in their communication and negotiation style. In business dealings, small talk is generally limited and getting to the point is rewarded. This is helpful to know if you’re giving a presentation or meeting new colleagues for a business meeting—don’t mince words.

Most business here have a relatively flat hierarchy, where seniority is recognised and respected, but even the most junior staff have direct access to management.

Finally, if you are involved in any business negotiations or negotiating a salary or contract with an employer or client, be aware that high-stakes bargaining techniques are usually not rewarded. The initial figure or offer should be realistic, rather than a tactic to get your negotiator to counteroffer.

Social etiquette and customs in Australia

Australian culture is usually laid-back and relaxed, and Australians tend to value authenticity and a lack of pretense above all else. Heralding your status, achievements, or connections at a social or professional event probably won’t be received very kindly in Australia. Proceeding with humility and a good sense of humor is wise—and some self deprecation goes a long way.
Social events in Australian society tend to be relatively informal, such as the much-loved backyard barbecue, or “barbie.”

Relationships tend to be forged on the basis of familiarity and neighborliness, and the Australian sense of humor is quite dry. You might be surprised how welcoming and open your new Australian neighbors are, depending on where you live.

When greeting one another, Australians are known to give an animated “G’day!” Handshakes are common but not always expected; it depends on the context.

In addition, Australia’s beach culture in coastal areas and warm temperatures throughout the country mean that the style of dress is fairly laid back. Many social gatherings are held outdoors as a result of the warm temperatures—the national identity is definitely rooted in outdoorsy and nature-loving preferences. Australians also have a love of sports, especially cricket, rugby, soccer, and Aussie rules football. Having some familiarity with these sports will help you befriend Australians and understand the national culture a lot better.

Arts, entertainment, and culture in Australia

When you’re not working, there will be loads of Australian culture, Australian music, and Australian cuisine for you to explore and enjoy. Australia hosts some amazing culinary diversity, with incredible food from southeast Asia as well as plenty of chefs and restaurants paying homage to their Anglo-Celtic heritage. In major cities, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the amount of food options to explore.

The Australian art scene is also something to explore during your time in the country. When it comes to artists with European ancestry, Australian themes in art have historically centered around dominating the landscapes and conquering nature. Meanwhile, Aboriginal art and culture will explore very different themes, often creating art that celebrates traditional lands and their people’s relationship with time and place. It’s worth getting to know this breadth of national culture during your time in Australia.

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