It can be exciting to start your international study journey in Australia, and you could disregard prudence in order to be your best self! Even though we strongly advise it, it is crucial to honor the traditions and customs of any nation you travel to and remain in.
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do!” should be kept in mind. As you now reside in Australia, your new host nation, the same might be argued.
Fortunately, Australia is a very liberal and accepting nation with a lively society that welcomes visitors, tourists, and international students. Nevertheless, there are a lot of taboos in Australia that you should stay away from, including those that deal with its stunning fauna and rich cultural legacy that dates back thousands of years.
When you live in Australia, you must avoid these things at all costs.
1.Do Not Forget To Tip If You Had A Good Experience
Tipping is a common way to express gratitude when dining out in Australia, just like in the US.
Fortunately, tipping between 10 and 15% is a fair rule of thumb in Australia, as opposed to the US, where 20% is customary (or occasionally the absolute minimum).
You can tip more if you think the service is great, but if the place is casual and not too “fancy,” you can get away with just 5–10%, and the server will be very grateful!
2. Do Not Pat A Koala Bear
Yes, I am aware that those adorable, cuddly bears are too good to refuse, but you shouldn’t try to pet or snuggle them! First of all, unless you are an expert in wildlife, handling these bears is perilous because they are still considered wildlife. You risk getting scratched and hurt in the process, in addition to upsetting the locals and possibly breaking state laws.
It’s great to observe them from a distance and snap some photos to save that adorable moment forever.
3.Do Not Litter & Smoke In Public Places
This one should go without saying, yet you’d be shocked at how careless some individuals can actually be.
Both smoking and littering are never acceptable in public areas. Both of these have fines, and if you do them, you’ll be considered negatively and generally ostracized.
Therefore, respect another nation as you would your own. In addition to making the nation greener and cleaner, you’ll also avoid paying expensive fines.
4. Do Not Climb Uluru (Ayres Rock)
If you haven’t climbed Uluru yet, you most likely won’t be able to for a while as the Australian National Park banned tourists and visitors from doing so in 2017.
The indigenous Anangu people, who have traditionally revered Uluru, are not happy to see tourists stomping all over their holy territory.
In addition, the winds increase and the terrain becomes more slick and steep as you go up the scale. Not only do you respect a cultural relic, but you also safeguard yourself by not climbing Ayres Rock.
5. Do Not Joke About Aborigines
Australia places a great value on its indigenous people, who frequently endure hardships and harsh realities like having their property taken away due to their distinctive customs, cultures, and historical roots.
Therefore, some traditions or rituals may seem strange or humorous to you even while you don’t fully comprehend the culture. However, making fun of them is neither appropriate nor courteous.
It’s best to keep your differing views to yourself.
6. Do Not Boast Or Act Haughty
Even though Australia is a global center for trade, tourism, and prosperity, acting arrogantly or boastfully is not nice.
Australia is a culture that emphasizes humility, hard work, and modesty; nobody appreciates someone who behaves arrogant and blows their own trumpet. You risk alienating yourself from developing real friendships and significant commercial prospects if you do this too frequently.
Rather, be kind, genuine, and helpful, and you’ll soon discover how much Australians are willing to share.
7. Do Not Wear Too Casual To Restaurants & Formal
Indeed, Australians are easygoing, and you frequently see people lounging around in casual attire.
But when it comes to restaurants and clubs, it’s crucial to dress appropriately and avoid showing up in flip-flops and a singlet. Let the beach handle that!
As an alternative, you always want to dress according to the event and emulate your fellow Australians.