Australian Lifestyle
Australia is a young, diverse and multicultural nation. While there's no such thing as a 'typical' Aussie, Australians are generally known for their laid-back, relaxed natures and their love of sport and the outdoors.
As an international student in Australia, you will encounter a wide range of customs, habits and perspectives on life that will be new and different to your own. This section provides a brief overview of Australian culture, which will help you prepare for the experience of studying in Australia.
Names
The use of first names is normal in Australia, but titles such as Mr, Mrs, Ms and Dr followed by the surname are usually used in business and formal situations. The use of nicknames is also common, and is a sign of acceptance and friendship.
Sport
Most Australians enjoy watching and playing sports. Popular sports in Perth include Australian Rules Football (AFL), cricket, hockey, tennis, rugby, netball and soccer. Water sports are also popular in Western Australia, due to the state's fine weather and unique coastline. There are a variety of sports offered at Curtin's Bentley campus. For more information visit the Guild website.
Conversation
Most Australians speak English, although this is often different from American or British English. The Australian accent is unique and Australians often use slang or colloquial (local) language, which can be difficult to understand. Don't hesitate to ask the people around you to clarify their meaning, as people will be more than willing to translate their language for you.
Aussie Expressions
The Australian language has many unique and colourful sayings. Many slang words reflect a tendency to shorten words, often adding 'o' onto the end. While sometimes difficult to understand, Australian expressions are very easy to pick up - you might find yourself using them without a second thought!
