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Welcome to Australia
General Information People and Culture Local Customs
General Information Australia has come a long way from her British colonial days. Today she reflects the beauty and grace of a land mixed with an Aboriginal heritage, British ties and a strong American and Eurasian influence. Australia has emerged with an identity reflecting this mix of cultures and has added a relaxed splash of "Aussie" friendliness.
Discover the great diversity of one land: the wilderness and the urban centers; the snow, deserts, beaches and tropical oases; the ancient culture and modern bustling cities; a great tropical reef and a vast plateau; fine architecture alongside modern skyscrapers.
All this can be enjoyed in a land of natural beauty with a palette of warm oranges and golds, vivid reds, crystal greens and clear blues.
People and Culture
The Australians are happy and relaxed people, lovers of sports and the great outdoors. The overwhelming majority of Australians is made up of "Aussies" and a mixture of Asian and European immigrants.
In the major cities you may notice the Asian populations. Certain nationalities tend to congregate in particular areas of the cities. A visit to shop or dine in one of these areas can be a rewarding experience.
Only a small number of native Australians (aborigines) remain. Their culture and beliefs grew from the land. Not many aboriginal people live in the cities; they inhabit mostly the central and northern sections of the country. Their best-known sacred sights are at Ayers Rock (Uluru).
Languages: English is the official language. Other native languages are also known by many Australians.
Religion: 26% Roman Catholic, 26% Anglican, 24% other Christian, 24% Buddhims, Judaism and Islam and other.
Local Customs
General:
When meeting, shake hands. Australians are quick to use first names.
When invited to someone's home for dinner, take a bottle of wine and perhaps flowers.
If invited for a barbecue or "barbie" (very popular), ask if you need to bring beer, meat, salads or a dessert (and always bring a bottle of wine for your host).
When you have finished eating your meal, place your knife and fork together (side by side) in the center of the plate.
Business:
Although Australians appear relaxed, punctuality is expected in business situations. Men should wear a business suit and tie, and women should wear a suit or tailored dress. Business cards are exchanged without any great fuss.
Breakfast meetings are popular, but business lunches are probably more common.
You may be asked to join a Sunday barbecue. Shorts are quite suitable dress for this kind of gathering.
To enter Australia, a valid passport is required as well as a visa (citizens of New Zealand require only a valid passport). You can apply for a visa at an Australian Consulate, Embassy or High Commission such as in Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc.
Cairns Real Estate - Queensland Real Estate - Canberra Real Estate - Brisbane Real Estate - Sydney Real Estate - Surfers Paradise Real Estate - Melbourne Real Estate - Adelaide City Real Estate - Darwin Real Estate - Gold Coast Real Estate - Perth Real Estate - Coffs Harbour Real Estate - Katoomba Real Estate - Barrier Reef Real Estate - Alice Springs Real Estate - Katoomba Real Estate - New South Wales Real Estate - Tasmania Real Estate - North Wollongong Real Estate - Palm Meadows Real Estate - Port Douglas Real Estate
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