Studying abroad in Australia can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also come with a significant culture shock. As a diverse country with a unique culture, there are many differences that international students may encounter when studying in Australia. Here are 15 things to expect when experiencing Australian culture shock:
Language
Australian English has its own distinct slang and accent that might take some time to get used to, especially if English is not your first language. Some common Australian slang terms include “arvo” (short for the afternoon), “brekkie” (short for breakfast), “bogan” (a derogatory term for someone who is considered uncultured or unsophisticated), and “fair dinkum” (meaning true or genuine). You may also notice that Australians tend to speak quickly and use a lot of abbreviations and slang in their everyday speech. If you’re having trouble understanding someone, don’t be afraid to ask them to slow down or repeat what they said.
Food
As I mentioned before, Australian cuisine is influenced by its multicultural population and has a wide variety of dishes to offer. Some popular options include:
- Meat pies: A savory pastry filled with minced meat, gravy, and sometimes vegetables.
- Sausage rolls: A similar pastry filled with sausage meat and sometimes cheese or vegetables.
- Fish and chips: Fried fish and French fries, often served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
- BBQ: Australians love to cook outdoors, and BBQs (or “barbies”) are a common way to socialize with friends and family. Sausages, burgers, and steak are popular choices, as well as seafood like prawns and oysters.
- Vegemite: A spread made from yeast extract that is commonly eaten on toast or crackers. It has a salty, savory flavor that can be an acquired taste.
Weather
Australia’s climate varies depending on where you are in the country, but in general, it is a warm and sunny place. However, it can also be very hot and dry, especially in the summer months (December to February). If you’re from a colder climate, you may find the heat overwhelming at first, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Australia is also known for its bushfires, which can occur during periods of extreme heat and drought.
Manners
Australians are generally friendly and laid-back people, but there are some cultural differences that you may notice. For example, it’s common to use “please” and “thank you” when making requests or receiving something, and it’s considered polite to hold the door open for someone else. Australians also tend to value punctuality, so it’s important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings. In terms of dress, casual clothing is generally acceptable for most situations, although you may need to dress up for formal events or job interviews.
Sense of humor:
Australians are known for their sense of humor, which can be irreverent and sarcastic at times. They often use humor as a way to diffuse tense situations or to show affection to their friends and family. However, it’s important to note that humor is subjective, and what one person finds funny may not be funny to someone else. If you’re not sure whether a joke is appropriate or not, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid making potentially offensive comments.
Time
Australia is divided into three time zones: Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST), Australian Central Standard Time (ACST), and Australian Western Standard Time (AWST). The time zones are set based on the country’s longitude, and there is no daylight saving time in the Northern Territory or Queensland. Daylight saving time is observed in other parts of the country, usually from October to April.
Sports
Sports are a big part of Australian culture, with some of the most popular sports including cricket, rugby, soccer, Australian Rules football (AFL), and tennis. Australians are very passionate about their sports teams, and attending a game or match can be a great way to experience the local culture. Many cities also have sports leagues for casual players, so if you’re interested in participating in a sport, it’s worth checking out local clubs or community centers.
Education system
The Australian education system is similar to the British system, with primary school (grades K-6), secondary school (grades 7-12), and tertiary education (universities and vocational colleges). Education is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and the government provides funding for public schools. Private schools are also available, but they can be expensive.
Attire
The Australian education system is similar to the British system, with primary school (grades K-6), secondary school (grades 7-12), and tertiary education (universities and vocational colleges). Education is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and the government provides funding for public schools. Private schools are also available, but they can be expensive.
Public transport
The Australian education system is similar to the British system, with primary school (grades K-6), secondary school (grades 7-12), and tertiary education (universities and vocational colleges). Education is mandatory for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and the government provides funding for public schools. Private schools are also available, but they can be expensive.
Currency
The Australian dollar (AUD) is the currency used in Australia. You can exchange your currency for AUD at banks, currency exchange offices, and airports. In Australia, notes come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, while coins come in 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, $1, and $2 denominations. It’s also worth noting that credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Australia, and many places, such as restaurants and shops, have contactless payment options.
Driving
In Australia, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, which may take some getting used to if you come from a country where driving is on the right-hand side. It’s important to always wear your seatbelt, follow the speed limit, and obey traffic rules and signs. Additionally, if you plan on driving in Australia, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license, either from your home country or an Australian license if you plan on staying in Australia for an extended period.
Alcohol
Alcohol is legal in Australia for those 18 years of age and older. It’s important to note that Australia has strict laws regarding drinking and driving, and there are serious consequences for those caught driving under the influence. In addition, public drinking is generally not allowed, except in certain designated areas, such as licensed restaurants or bars. Finally, it’s important to drink responsibly and know your limits.
Wildlife
Australia is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including marsupials like kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas, as well as more dangerous creatures like snakes, spiders, and crocodiles. If you plan on exploring the outdoors in Australia, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and know how to stay safe around wildlife. This may include staying on marked trails, not approaching wild animals, and keeping a safe distance from dangerous creatures.
Multiculturalism
Australia is a multicultural country, with a diverse population made up of people from all over the world. This means that you’ll likely encounter a wide variety of cultures, languages, and customs during your time in Australia. This diversity is celebrated in many ways, including through food, music, art, and festivals. It’s important to be respectful of different cultures and to keep an open mind when interacting with people from different backgrounds. Additionally, learning about different cultures can be a great way to enrich your study abroad experience and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.
Studying in Australia can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be a culture shock for international students. From the unique language and slang to the diverse cuisine and relaxed social norms, there are many differences to be aware of. However, with an open mind and a willingness to embrace new experiences, studying in Australia can also be an incredibly rewarding experience that offers the opportunity to learn and grow in a new and exciting environment. By taking the time to understand and appreciate the differences, international students can make the most of their time in Australia and create lasting memories and friendships.
