Cultural variations in Australia

Personality and a positive attitude are integral components when looking for work in Australia. As far as your personal  presentation is concerned, you must try to adopt an Australian style.. 

It is important to understand that some Australian cultural standards may be different to what you are used to.

In certain cultures, such as the Maori culture and certain Asian cultures avoiding eye contact is being respectful. However at a job interview in Australia if you avoid looking at the interviewer you will look suspicious and most probably will not be selected for the job. 


When you go to Australia, you must be prepared to 'think Australian.'


The majority of Australians are not racist. But as in any situation if you approach Australians with a preconceived notion or attitude they will probably respond in kind. You will find the old saying of ‘you only get back what you give out’ is very true in Australia.
Australians are famous for good-natured jibes and they quite expect a good natured jibe in return. This is part of the national mindset that you have to ‘give as good as you get’.

This can be quite unnerving for new arrivals in Australia and can take quite a bit of getting used to.

Australians probably generally express themselves in a louder, blunter manner than what you may be used to. If this is going to be uncomfortable for you, then maybe a more reserved culture such as New Zealand- might be more suitable for you.