Social Life in Australia - Welcome Mate!

July 1, 2008 by Mira

“Custom, then, is the great guide of human life.” - David Hume

The knowledge of the customs and the social traits of any country is the secret to a better understanding of the people of that country. This thought has motivated me to pen down a few of my observations on the social life and customs of the Australians.

It is with great pride that Australians uphold their heritage.

Indeed, if a nation that was earlier inhabited by convicts and labor-class could carve for itself a niche in the world of modern societies, this should be a matter of great honor and pride. Australians are characterized by their so-called ‘laid-back’ attitude.

There is an absolute resentment for the show of pomp in Australia. Even the sense of humor of Australians is noted for its sarcasm and irony. Friends are greeted with a very casual “Hi” or “G’day” (an abbreviation for Good Day). A handshake often follows the greeting.

If I had to name two integral aspects of Australian social life, it would be drinking and gambling. The drink of choice has always been Beer. However, wine production has reached new heights in post World-War II Australia. The elders in Australia mostly use the pub while the youth can be seen hanging out in a fashionable bar or restaurant.

Apart from meeting in the pubs or restaurants, Australians are into the habit of frequent home gatherings. They entertain friends at home with elaborate barbecues. A very warm welcome is offered to the guests who are treated with incredible hospitality thus making the Australians one of the best informal hosts you can ever come across.

The cosmopolitan complexion of Australia’s population has brought with it a wide and varied range of culinary treats. The Australian cuisine has been given an international make-over by the immigrant communities. In general the quick service restaurants are very popular in Australia. These places are also the sought after spots for the socializing crowds.

One important way of socializing in Australia is holing colorful festivals that attract tourists from every corner of the world. To mention some, the Sydney Art Festival held in January invites concert performers and theatre enthusiasts of global acclaim to give free display of their talents- the Adelaide Festival of arts and the Melbourne Festival are also important landmarks in the social history of Australia. Noteworthy of mentioning is Sydney’s colorful Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, that is held in February every year and is considered to be one of the largest social gatherings of its kind in the world.

The Australian society is looked upon as a highly tolerant society that has accommodated people with diverse cultural backgrounds. In this society, each individual is given his space to retain and share their cultural beliefs and practices. All this has evolved a unique pattern of socializing where the rights of others are respected as your own.

With a basic idea of our socializing norms and social customs, I hope that you will be able to adapt to our lifestyle and become a part of the community.