Australian taboos

Welcome to Australia!

Over one-fifth of Australians born to immigrant parents, making Australia a culture of melting pot. Australia is a pretty laid back country overall and people in Australia are very open-minded, fun loving and are generally accepting of different cultures visiting their country. However, as you travel to Australia, you must stick to the laws of the land and respect the local customs. Aware of what you can and cannot do while in Australia will make your trip a memorable one, and not a disaster! The following Australia travel tips of the dos and donts will help you to enjoy the exotic animals, barbecues, and the sights on your trip to Australia and make it one of the best experiences of your life.

Australia Travel Taboo

Extending the middle finger is rude.

Eating, drinking and smoking on public transports, most stores and public buildings.

Australia donts

• Do not forget to carry photocopies of your identity and other essential documents wherever you go and leave copies with trust family back home.
• Do not bring with you prohibited items, such as meat, packaged, dairy products or fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Do not eat, drink and smoke on public transports, most stores and public buildings.
• Do not blow your nose in public which is socially unacceptable.
• Do not swim outside the red and yellow flags at beaches for your safety. These flags designate safe areas.
• Do not swim in the ocean until you have checked the warnings posted on the beaches.
• Do not hire any vehicle from unlicensed operators.
• Do not be surprised by what they wear or not wear on the beaches. Lady Jane is the nude beach in Sydney.
• Do not be offended being addressed by your first name. In Australia, first names are used both in personal greetings and business correspondence. Professional titles are not prominent in Australian business culture, and are sometimes dismissed as pretentious.
• Do not touch, pat or hug other men in public which is considered socially unacceptable.
• Do not visit without appointment. Unannounced visits are not part of Australian culture; always make a call before you wish to meet the people.
• Do not be surprised if you are asked to bring your own beer and meat for the grill when invited to a barbecue in Australia. Barbecues are a big part of Australian culture, people will typically bring their own beer or wine for their own consumption.
• Do not put your elbows on the table when eating, and do indicate that you are full by putting your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the utensil handles facing right.