Many expats choose to settle in Australia because of its sunny beaches, pristine nature and high standard of living. But what about the people?
The stereotype is that Aussies have a laid-back larrikin attitude and bone-dry sense of humour. This is true but not the whole story. Here are some things you should know about the Australians.
1. They’re genuinely interested in you
Known for their casual approach to life, Australians embrace egalitarianism and a sense of humour as key national values. They strive to appear no better or worse than anyone else and prefer authenticity and genuineness over swagger and pretence.
Wide open spaces and a year-round warm climate make Australia ideal for an active lifestyle. Australians are often seen playing or watching sport and will happily swap stories with friends over a beer or a barbecue.
If you notice that an Aussie guy keeps looking at you longer than usual, leans in whenever you speak or is quick to offer up an “oh, yea” when he hears your voice then it might be a sign that he’s interested in you. However, keep in mind that these behaviours are not necessarily indicative of romantic interest. Rather, they could simply be indications of his friendly and gregarious nature. They might also indicate that he likes your company or is interested in getting to know you.
2. They’re not afraid to ask you questions
Australians are known all over the world for their laid back, friendly attitudes. Maybe it’s all those miles of beaches, the pristine nature or the top-notch quality of life that keeps Aussies so happy and relaxed. Or perhaps it’s the concept of mateship, which emphasizes friendship and solidarity, as well as a healthy respect for others and an attitude of equality between men and women.
The word mate is often used as a greeting in Australia, but it also signifies a certain spirit of camaraderie and loyalty between friends or acquaintances. The sense of mateship is evident in the way Aussies are quick to rely on their mates in times of trouble and they value humility and self-sacrificing friendliness. They are also very egalitarian and resent being viewed as better than anyone else. This attitude makes for a great atmosphere and attracts many foreign expats and tourists to the country.
3. They’re not afraid to be honest
Australians are proud of their national identity and culture and do not shy away from showing it. But, they are also not afraid to show their softer side when it comes to being honest.
Mateship is at the heart of Australian spirit – you will find Aussies greeting strangers in elevators with a friendly “g’day, how ya goin’?” or calling the mail carrier and bus drivers their mates. They have a strong sense of egalitarianism and are always ready to support the underdog. Migrants and foreigners are often surprised to see how quickly they feel a strong bond of friendship in Australia.
Their relaxed attitude is driven by a combination of factors, such as the country’s copious amounts of space and the favourable climate. They enjoy a great work-life balance, and are generally not in a hurry. It’s also common to hear them swear, as they are quite comfortable with using this slang and are not aware that it is considered vulgar in other cultures.
4. They’re not afraid to take the piss
One of the biggest things Aussies are renowned for around the world is their easy-going attitude. This translates to a relaxed lifestyle and a sense of humor that’s often laconic and irreverent.
From the Sydney bowls clubs to the blokes pouring their after-work schooners in Outback pubs, this egalitarian spirit permeates Australian culture like no other. It’s why, for example, you can greet the Queen with a ‘g’day mate’.
This is a nation that takes a laidback approach to life thanks to its vast open spaces and year-round sunny weather. Whether it’s a day out at the beach or family barbeque, it’s a country that loves to chill out and enjoy the company of its friends (human or animal). This informality is also reflected in the way Australians address each other: a healthy disregard for prestige, hierarchies and titles keeps people from thinking of themselves as better than others. Anyone, from the mail carrier to the cab driver, can be called a mate.