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Language
Language is always a key issue when traveling the world, particularly if you’ve had little or no previous experience in communicating in the language. However, it is always important to remember that a little effort made, even if only to attempt speaking the local language, is always appreciated.
It shows a respect for the country and its people that you have made an effort and as such, will make them more inclined to assist you. Australia is known as a very friendly country, and if you should have any problems, rest assured, people will be happy to help.
Australia is a multicultural community and is home to people from all over the globe. Often, it is easy to pick up basic English just by living here for a period of time, otherwise, it is always possible to find a private tutor or to enrol in a language school to help further your language skills. Also, don’t fall into the trap of buying an Aussie slang dictionary.
While fun and interesting to read, it is rare that Australians will use such language in day to day life. If you want to work in Australia, you will have to be « fluent » in English, and for occupations at a senior level, you will be treated as equals with an anglophone.
If you can avoid staying amongst people who speak your native language, you will find your level of English will improve quickly during your first two months in Australia.
Fashion
Due to the climate in Australia, it is common to find women dressed casually, in clothes such as shorts or a mini-skirt and thongs all year round. In summer you may even walk into a shopping mall and find women dressed in only a bikini top and shorts or men barefoot. In Winter, even though the winter clothes are less warm than in France, the season has its own fashion. Ugg boots is a huge part of fashion history in Australia. These boots for women were designed out of sheepskin to keep your feet warm and stylish any time of the year. Now they are a worldwide known brand that are worn by many.
However, Australia’s fashion capital is arguably Melbourne, which has a more sophisticated style than that found in the streets of Sydney.
Despite what we said earlier, whichever city you may find yourself in, for job interviews and formal occasions, stylish business attire remains the best option. For going out in the evening to a bar or club, men will generally wear a collared shirt, and avoid sports shoes, while women like to dress up in stylish (and sexy) dresses.
For other important national events, such as the Melbourne Cup, Australians do not hesitate to break out the heels, stylish hats and cuff-links.
Common Values
Australia is known as a multicultural society, so expect to find people from nations and cultures from all over the world.
The common values of Australian society include tolerance and understanding towards people, regardless of race, age, sex or ethnicity.
Respect is also very important, not only towards people, but towards the environment. Australia from its major cities to its small outback towns, all pride themselves on a clean environment, with good public space management. This means not throwing rubbish just anywhere, and respecting the place you are in.
This is especially important at sacred Aboriginal sites.