DO GREET OTHERS

Greeting someone in Australia is a casual, informal affair regardless of whether one knows the person or
not and whether he or she is a close friend or a total stranger. Australians greet each other all the time,
all throughout day and night. The culture is generally relaxed and friendly. When it comes to saying
hello, there are few typical greeting phrases and slang words.

"G’day", short for "Good day", is the most popular Aussie greeting. Starting a conversation by saying this
is wishing another person a good day, appreciating someone’s existence in the moment. Australians
incorporate "mate" as their way of acknowledging others, as well. Tourists don't need to feel as though
they should say "G’day" or use the word "mate" in conversing. Australians are aware of this stereotype
and it can feel a little patronizing coming from a visitor. Just saying hello and making good eye contact is
enough.

Many Australians greet by saying "How are you?”. This is simply a greeting, not an actual enquiry about
one's well-being. Giving an answer that is deeply personal or less positive can make the flow of
conversation awkward and uncomfortable.

Newcomers must take the initiative to introduce themselves. It is sometimes assumed that people will
get to know each other as they mingle in a social setting. Do greet with a smile and a handshake. A
handshake is the common greeting between strangers. It is more appropriate if one is meeting someone
with whom one expects to have an ongoing relationship, like a new work colleague. Shaking with a firm
hand and eye contact reflects confidence.

Different physical greetings depend on one’s sense and comfort level. When greeting each other, close
friends may hug, back-slap or kiss one another on the cheek, while others may simply offer a nod.
Women generally tend to be more physically affectionate during greetings.

DO USE FIRST NAMES

In Australia, first names are almost always used during initial introductions. Australians address
someone by their first name right after knowing them. Even in formal situations, Australians tend to
prefer first names. This is an indication of mutual respect and equality.

The use of titles is not an essential part of Australian business culture. Australians are rather informal in
their business dealings and will move to a first name basis quite quickly. However, when initially
introduced, one should address their Australian counterparts by their last names preceded by "Mr",
"Mrs" or "Miss" until they initiate this informality.

Nicknames used between friends may come as a surprise. Insults such as calling a friend a "wog" is sign
of friendship and acceptance. These comments should not be taken negatively, but as an acceptable
joke. "Mate" can be thrown as a colloquial and gender-neutral word in substitute for first names. The
word also signifies egalitarianism and friendship.
DO STAY ON THE LEFT

Australians drive on the left-hand side on the road, and this convention carries over to other parts of
their streets as well. Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancient Romans may have driven their
carts and chariots on the left, and the practice seems to have carried over into parts of medieval Europe.
Some believe this way of transport is for safety. The Australians have adopted the left side of driving
from their British colonizers. They patterned their roads and bought their early cars from Britain.

When stopping on an escalator or walking upstairs, Australians always stick to the left and avoid
blocking other people from passing. They walk on the left of the footpath. On an escalator, they stand
on the left side, leaving the right side for people to walk pass through. Equally, when walking on the
sidewalk, they to stick to the left. It is not just a matter of politeness but also a matter of safety.

DO FOLLOW THE QUEUES

Australians follow their rules strictly. If there is a queue, Australians follow it without pushing anyone in
front. Queuing or forming a line is expected when there is a demand for particular items at a shopping
center, a pub or when waiting to board public transport. It is considered basic manners. Queues are
formed on a "first there, first in" line basis. Even if they don’t actually stand in a straight line, they
recognize who was there first and wait for their corresponding turn.

In some cultures, queuing is optional or just not-a-thing. In Australia the queue is sacred. ‘Pushing-in’ in
any situation is considered the height of rudeness. It is wrong to jump the queue and Australians
disapproves this ill conduct. Most of the time, it is obvious where a queue begins and ends. When in
doubt, one can simply ask "excuse me, is this the end of the line?"

DO GIVE GIFTS

The practice of giving gifts in Australia is not an official protocol but is not completely out of the
ordinary. Small gifts are commonly exchanged with family members, close friends, and neighbors on
holidays and birthdays. These gifts are opened when received.

If invited to someone's home for dinner, it is polite to bring a box of chocolates or flowers to the
hostess. A good quality bottle of wine or beer is always appreciated. Giving gifts help build a solid and
friendly relationship.

It is essential to remember that Australians care much more about the thought of the gift than the price
tag – especially if one is a visitor from a foreign country bringing something from one’s hometown. The
thought behind the gift and the sincerity is far more appreciated, even if the gift seems cheap in price.
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https://www.contentedtraveller.com/27-dos-donts-visiting-australia/

Do's and Don'ts in Australia | BudgetAir® Australia. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.budgetair.com.au/flights/australia/etiquitte-tips

Etiquette in Australia and New Zealand. (2018, January 02). Retrieved from
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B. (2018, September 06). A Guide to Australian Etiquette. Retrieved from

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