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Visiting a new place can be exhilarating: there’s so much to explore, discover, and take in. But it also comes with its fair share of cultural surprises. After all, what feels completely normal in one corner of the world can seem unusual, funny, or even confusing in another.
So when someone online asked, “What are some things a foreigner or immigrant would find strange or not know about Australians or Australia?” Aussies jumped right in. From adding inflection to the end of sentences to the surprising number of Chinese restaurants in every town, the responses were as entertaining as they were eye-opening.
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#1
We don't do patriotism like America...that level of flag-wavery is deeply unsettling.
Bob Jones 6 days ago
Flying an Australian flag is generally seen as a very right wing thing to do, except on Australia day when it is only slightly less right wing. Also, these days many people do not support the current version of Australia Day as it celebrates the European arrival, which was not great for the people who had been living here for thousands of years already.
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#2
We don’t really do tipping much, because we have labour laws that make sure people are paid properly by their employers (in theory at least).
#3
"yeah nah" = no
"Nah yeah" = yes.
UnclePanda 6 days ago (edited)
"No nononononono no no no ... uh, yes!" ~ Jim, The Vicar of Dibley
A lot of people hear “Australia” and instantly picture kangaroos hopping around like they own the place. And fair enough, they are adorable and basically the country’s unofficial mascot. But the truth is a bit less postcard-perfect. Australia actually has a pretty complicated relationship with its famous “roos.”
Believe it or not, there are more than twice as many kangaroos as actual humans, which means they pop up everywhere. And while tourists see them as cute, bouncy wonders, many Aussies see them as…well, pests. Farmers, known as graziers, often complain that kangaroos munch through crops, trample fences, and compete with their livestock for precious food and water.
#4
If you are invited to a party or bbq and asked to "bring a plate" it means bring some kind of food to share.
Michael P (Perthaussieguy) 6 days ago
Lol. Not just an empty plate for you to fill from your host. Also, it's rude not to bring a bottle of wine or some beer, too.
#5
It’s not that unusual to see someone walking around in public spaces such as a shopping centre or city streets barefoot.
Mavis 6 days ago (edited)
Depends how far away from a beach you are. Barefoot 100m from a beach, no one will look twice. 1 km from a beach, not too bad but you will get a few funny looks. Any barefoot person more than 5 kms from a beach, is dodgy and should be avoided. In fact I would say it is very unusual in "shopping centres or city streets" that aren't in beachside suburbs.
#6
Making small talk with the person at the register of a supermarket or shop is common and considered polite. Just keep it light and finish when they’re finished scanning or bagging.
The Great Barrier Reef isn’t just a pretty spot on the map, it’s basically nature showing off. Stretching along Australia’s northeast coast, this place is like an underwater universe of its own. It’s home to the biggest collection of coral reefs on the entire planet, packed with hundreds of coral varieties that look like they were designed by a very enthusiastic artist.
Then you’ve got the marine life: around 1,500 types of fish and thousands of molluscs cruising around like they run the place. And hidden among all that color and chaos are some seriously special residents, like the gentle dugong (aka the sea cow) and the iconic green turtle, both hanging on as threatened species.
#7
We swear a lot. Like a lot a lot.
We casually drop the ‘c’ word into conversation without even thinking about it.
Dawn Woolley 6 days ago
I'm an Aussie, I don't swear a lot, neither do my family or friends. And definitely not the 'c' word. I must live a very sheltered life if this is true.
Emilu 6 days ago
You say 'sheltered', I say 'you live in a more civilised area', lol. My experience is definitely more reminiscent of the poster's than yours.
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London Paris 6 days ago
Id challenge that assertion. Swearing IS common but really only amongst those one considers close and its still frowned upon in public.
KatieMal 6 days ago
I'm Aussie, and while I and my family don't swear, the swear word i hear most is often the f word, but swearing is unfortunately very common in everyday vocabulary here.
ROSESARERED 4 days ago
Yeh nah, not all Aussies swear alot, considerable less than this comment suggests, some suburbs, towns etc do more than others
Mr. Robinson 6 days ago
The C word isn't a swear word there and apparently you haven't spent much time around Americans because we swear all the time, too.
Emilu 5 days ago
C word definitely is a swear word. Lots of people use it, however.
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#8
So, so many! I’ll just offer one:
We generally look down…. way down… on what we used to call “skiting”, but is probably more commonly known these days as “boasting”. That cheery self-aggrandising cataloging of one’s achievements and abilities, meant to underline how great one is, that American society seems to actually encourage under the banner of “self confidence”, is usually perceived here as “bragging”, and in general has the opposite effect from that intended by the brag-ee: we roll our eyes and our opinion of them goes down, not up.
Some related phrases admonishing this behaviour you might encounter:
Don’t big-note yourself
Don’t put the dog on
Don’t blow your own trumpet
Don’t be up yourself.
#9
We give everybody nicknames. Few people get called by their actual given name. If someone gives you a nickname, it probably means they like you.
Now, let’s talk about Australia’s capital, because surprise, it’s not Sydney or Melbourne. It’s actually Canberra, the quiet achiever of Aussie cities. While the world tends to picture Australia through Sydney’s Opera House or Melbourne’s coffee culture, Canberra is over here calmly holding all the important paperwork, running the country, and minding its own business. It’s a city packed with national treasures, government buildings, museums, and enough roundabouts to confuse even the most confident driver.
#10
Australians seem to naturally add inflection to the end of sentences. We're not asking you a question, that's just how we talk.
#11
We walk on the left. Stand to the left of escalators.
#12
It’s not cool to talk down to hospitality workers, cleaners etc
I was at a lift once and an American woman got in and started having a go at the attendant operating it. Basically why was he doing such a low status job. I told her “he was lucky enough to meet interesting people like yourself “ I think even she was able to detect the HEAVY sarcasm and shut up.
One of the quirkiest surprises Australia has up its sleeve? Its stunning pink lake. Take Lake Hillier in Western Australia, for example, this place looks like someone dumped a giant bucket of bubblegum into the landscape. The bright pink color isn’t just for show; it comes from a mix of salt-loving algae and bacteria that thrive in its waters, giving it that surreal, candy-colored vibe. It’s the kind of natural wonder that makes you do a double-take, especially when the surrounding shoreline and forests look totally normal. And yes, people can actually visit and snap photos, though swimming is a rare treat.
#13
We are a very informal nation. Almost everyone is addressed by their first name, even some teachers.
Tucker Cahooter 6 days ago
And if you don't know their first name (or even if you do) just call them "mate"
#14
That Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. I think because of poor media representation, Australia is depicted as a overly majority white place when that’s really only the reality in small towns. Even in small towns I always seem to find at least 1 chinese family running a Chinese takeout and same for Vietnamese hahah.
#15
An entree is a starter, not a main course.
Aussies are fairly self deprecating.
Being asked hows it going isnt really asking how its going, its just a way of saying hi.
Too easy is a response to say we will do it, its not necessarily easy.
You will likely be given a nickname.
Regions have different names for the same foods and can get very snippy about it - ie parma/parmi, potato cake, potato scallop
Ordering beer is slightly different state to state.
Australia has always marched to the beat of its own drum, and that was clear back in 1902. That year, it became only the second country in the world, right after New Zealand, to give women the right to vote. Imagine the excitement and sense of empowerment for women at the time, finally having a say in shaping their country’s future. It wasn’t just a political milestone; it was a statement about progress and equality that resonated far beyond the ballot box. Aussie women could now make their voices heard, influencing laws, leaders, and the direction of their nation. This bold move set the tone for future reforms and cemented Australia’s reputation as a country willing to take steps forward.
#16
There are gas barbecues in the many parks scattered through the cities, suburbs and country towns. The usage and the gas is free.
#17
To elaborate on the ‘no tipping’ comments
Sometimes business will have a small ‘tips’ jar at their register, it’s mostly used for any small change when paying with cash if you actually appreciate the place/service :).
London Paris 6 days ago
By all means, tip as an act of appreciation for good service, but DONT make a show of it and dont get pissy when noone expresses ecstatic gratitude to you.
#18
Aussie: "Easy as, mate!"
Me, an immigrant: *Easy as mate?!?!*
Aussie: "Sweet as!"
Me: *Sweet as what???*.
Australia has over 60 wine regions! Beyond its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and iconic landmarks, the country also boasts world-class vineyards. From the rolling hills of the Barossa Valley to the sun-soaked vineyards of Margaret River, wine lovers can sip their way through some of the finest reds, whites, and sparkling wines on the planet. Each region has its own unique flavors and stories, making every glass a little adventure. So while Aussies enjoy their beaches and wildlife, the wine scene quietly steals the spotlight too.
#19
The fact we’re hardly a religious nation yet we get Good Friday and Easter Monday as public holidays. My in laws are catholic Americans and think this is so absurd due to the USA being far more religious and they don’t get either as a holiday.
#20
A lot if people called "dinner" "tea" so if someone asks you over for tea they mean a full meal.
#21
A friend of mine is from Iran and pretty much the way we talk was hard for him. He studied American English before coming (he is a refugee) and said once he got here it was like we spoke a completely different English haha.
Never Snarky 6 days ago
I’m an American. I met an Australian in Peru. We laughed that neither of us could understand much of what each other was saying.
#22
It is quite likely for there to be a Chinese restaurant almost everywhere.
Rose the Cook 6 days ago
Chinese restaurants started during the gold rush of1851 and people are so used to them that they are no longer considered "foreign food.'
The vast majority of Australians live near the coast, and it’s easy to see why. With thousands of sparkling beaches stretching along the shoreline, Australia has earned its reputation as a beach lover’s paradise. From the iconic Bondi and Surfers Paradise to hidden coves tucked away from the crowds, there’s a sandy escape for everyone. Surfing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun, coastal life is woven into the Aussie lifestyle. No wonder most Aussies choose to call these vibrant, seaside spots home.
#23
Our voice will go up at the end of a sentence like it’s a question but it isn’t.
#24
Something about the public attitudes to Anzac Day changed in the late 90s. I went to the dawn service and the parade since 1991 as I played in a matching band. For the first half of the 90s it was pretty empty and really sombre and really moving. Then after the dawn service you'd head to the cricketers arms and they'd have a few drinks and then have the parade which was pretty quiet affair that most people didn't even know was on. Then after about 1999 it started to change. Suddenly large numbers of young guys started coming and then getting drunk and loud and obnoxious. Our band was warned about leaving our instruments unattended as they'd get stolen. Once my drum got kicked in. As a teenager people started to try and pick a fight with us all the time or make fun of our uniform or try and lift our kilts. I can't stand Anzac Day anymore. It's been taken over by these macho fucktards.
#25
Don’t be confused by the saying “yeah nah”. If you asking an Australian something and they respond with this it is simply a polite way of saying no, even though they are stating an affirmative first.
Do you want to get something to drink after work?
Yeah, nah. I’ve got football training, cheers though mate, maybe Friday? Yeah.
#26
There is more to Australia than NSW, Victoria and Queensland. So much more.
Zig Zag Wanderer 6 days ago
Mate, there's more to Western Australia than Western Australia, it's that bloody big!
Well, Australia sure seems like a land full of surprises and quirky charm. These posts really highlight the fascinating and sometimes unexpected sides of Aussie culture. Which one of these facts or traditions surprised you the most?
#27
Sometimes they say "but" to end a sentence, and will be confused if you ask "but what?".
#28
Asserting your religion is frowned upon. We don't care about your invented fairy tale. Keep that private.
Never ever tip its incredibly disrespected and insulting unless you actually appreciate the service, even so tip ONLY the person who served you not the business.
Our government is deeply hated.
Not learning the customs and language is a fast track to being distrusted.
Daisydaisy 6 days ago
I cannot agree that our government is "deeply hated" - we are however free to openly and passionately disagree with particular policies or elected individuals and to laugh at or mock them as needed. I believe that is not an okay thing to do in many countries
#29
My partner who came to Aus 4 years ago says. "They charge you for sauces at food places, so stingy."
#30
The biggest one is that we're overall a very urban population.
Colin Roach 5 days ago
That's because once you go outside of cities the Drop Bears will get you.
#31
We say
‘ I reckon …’ which a lot of other English speaking countries don’t get.
We say ‘yeah yeah’ when we’re listening just to say we heard. But in the US people will think you want to actually interrupt or say something.
#32
"The Australian Dream" -- the desire to own a house is almost universal. But the way Australians are obsessed with property is truly something else (at least to a recent migrant like me). Expect it to be a part of almost every lunch conversation, everyone's life goal is to have a 30-year mortgage for a "free standing 4-bedder with a big backyard". Anyone renting or living in an apartment is, basically, considered not "living".
Daisydaisy 6 days ago
This has changed in my lifetime. When I was young, everyone could save up and buy a house (on a quarter acre), even low income families. Now housing is out of reach for all but the wealthy, and there is almost nothing available to rent, so suddenly we have homelessness and young adults never able to leave the family home. I don't expect any of my kids to ever be able to buy a house
#33
Despite the belief that it's cosmopolitan, Melbourne is actually like a big country town.
#34
We always sit in the front of the taxi/uber.
#35
When the national anthem is played, everyone is expected to sing along.
Kiki Likes Sweets 6 days ago
Ah, büllshit!! Unless you mean " am I ever gonna see your face again" by the Angels... everyone sings along with that!!!
#36
My friend invited me to a party on top of my head. I thought it was just an eating party, but it is different. It's a beer-drinking party. so right now anyone invites me, I always bring my Eski and beers.
#37
That we are over regulated and burdened and have a culture of unhelpful attitudes at nearly every level of government. Contrast that with the stereotype of our laid back attitude to life.
#38
Nice to your face but when the curtain falls , so very racist and small minded.
What do you think ?
kissmychakram 6 days ago
I'm currently in Adelaide visiting my in-laws and some of these are completely accurate and some aren't. Like Europe and the USA, Australia isn't one set of stereotypes but a broad and diverse set of people and what is true for one State or Territory isn't necessarily true for another. Do other states drink as much Farmers Union Iced Coffee as SA?
Emilu 6 days ago (edited)
No, whilst we drink iced coffee everywhere, SA are known for drinking that particular brand and a lot of it. Um, at least according to several articles I've read, anyway. 😆
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Janelle Collard 5 days ago
If someone invited me to a meal and said, "Bring a plate" I'd take it to mean they didn't have enough dishes, plates, etc., for everybody. 🤷♀️
Mr. Robinson 6 days ago
Showed this to my friend in AUS and she rolled her eyes at most of them. She said these post came off as mostly arrogant.
Emilu 5 days ago
I'm not sure how the majority of it is arrogant? The US-bashing gets a bit old, though.
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Nova Rook 6 days ago
Watched Wolf Creek Season 1 and every male is either a rapist or a m******r or a dumb cop.
Emilu 5 days ago
I didn't realise Wolf Creek was a TV series! I thought it was just a movie. Shows how up to date I'm not 😆 "That's not a knife... *this* is a knife!"
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T'Mar of Vulcan 6 days ago
My cousins moved to Australia in the early 2000s and they all said that when you go to visit someone, they come outside and stand by your car. If you have a backyard BBQ, you're expected to stay in the back yard and not allowed in the house. WHY?
Huddo's sister 5 days ago
I've never experienced either of those scenarios, though when saying goodbye we might walk you to your car.
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Andrew Price 6 days ago
37 and 38 are only partially true. And probably written by very bitter people.
Zig Zag Wanderer 6 days ago
I guess a lot of this is quite true for people who are just visiting and staying in tbe capital cities. There's a great deal more to Australia, however!
Justbecause 4 days ago
I want to add going to a beach, taking a look at the surf and rips then deciding that isn't a safe beach today and going to a different beach instead. Also checking tides, weather, winds, swell, shark watch ect before picking a beach to go to. If you go to a beach in Australia and the locals aren't swimming there is a reason and the reason is usually it's not safe to swim there today. Also treating the sun like its actively trying to k**l you. Cover up, stay in the shade and hope your sunscreen works.
kissmychakram 6 days ago
I'm currently in Adelaide visiting my in-laws and some of these are completely accurate and some aren't. Like Europe and the USA, Australia isn't one set of stereotypes but a broad and diverse set of people and what is true for one State or Territory isn't necessarily true for another. Do other states drink as much Farmers Union Iced Coffee as SA?
Emilu 6 days ago (edited)
No, whilst we drink iced coffee everywhere, SA are known for drinking that particular brand and a lot of it. Um, at least according to several articles I've read, anyway. 😆
Load More Replies... Janelle Collard 5 days ago
If someone invited me to a meal and said, "Bring a plate" I'd take it to mean they didn't have enough dishes, plates, etc., for everybody. 🤷♀️
Mr. Robinson 6 days ago
Showed this to my friend in AUS and she rolled her eyes at most of them. She said these post came off as mostly arrogant.
Emilu 5 days ago
I'm not sure how the majority of it is arrogant? The US-bashing gets a bit old, though.
Load More Replies... Nova Rook 6 days ago
Watched Wolf Creek Season 1 and every male is either a rapist or a m******r or a dumb cop.
Emilu 5 days ago
I didn't realise Wolf Creek was a TV series! I thought it was just a movie. Shows how up to date I'm not 😆 "That's not a knife... *this* is a knife!"
Load More Replies... T'Mar of Vulcan 6 days ago
My cousins moved to Australia in the early 2000s and they all said that when you go to visit someone, they come outside and stand by your car. If you have a backyard BBQ, you're expected to stay in the back yard and not allowed in the house. WHY?
Huddo's sister 5 days ago
I've never experienced either of those scenarios, though when saying goodbye we might walk you to your car.
Load More Replies... Andrew Price 6 days ago
37 and 38 are only partially true. And probably written by very bitter people.
Zig Zag Wanderer 6 days ago
I guess a lot of this is quite true for people who are just visiting and staying in tbe capital cities. There's a great deal more to Australia, however!
Justbecause 4 days ago
I want to add going to a beach, taking a look at the surf and rips then deciding that isn't a safe beach today and going to a different beach instead. Also checking tides, weather, winds, swell, shark watch ect before picking a beach to go to. If you go to a beach in Australia and the locals aren't swimming there is a reason and the reason is usually it's not safe to swim there today. Also treating the sun like its actively trying to k**l you. Cover up, stay in the shade and hope your sunscreen works.
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