Are you considering studying in Australia as an international student? If you have not visited before, you’re likely aware of its reputation for endless coastlines (we are an island nation after all) and quirky wildlife – but there are a few things you might be surprised to learn about this diverse country.
Let’s look at a few lesser-known aspects of Australian life.
Some take their coffee very seriously
Forget about Starbucks. Australia’s coffee culture is all about quality and independent cafes. Each city boasts its own array of coffee shops serving meticulously crafted, barista-brewed coffee. Sydney is home to a thriving café scene led by award-winning baristas, including past World Barista Championship competitors who now run their own spots. You’ll quickly learn that coffee here isn’t just a drink; it’s a daily ritual, a social connector, and a way of life.
Not a caffeine fan? No problem. There’s also an abundance of herbal teas, and other decaffeinated warm beverages available at most cafes in major cities.
We’re also trying to do our bit for the environment where we can, so if you’re a coffee drinker and like your hot drinks to go, get yourself a keep cup to avoid contributing to landfill. Some cafes even offer a discount to those who bring their own cup.
Queueing is sacred
Australians take queueing (standing in line) even more seriously than their coffee. Whether it’s waiting for a bus, lining up at the supermarket checkout, or buying tickets at a cinema, jumping the queue is considered very rude, and you’ll likely be told so by more than one person if you attempt it. You’ve been warned.
Sports are a national obsession
Cricket in the summer or Australian football in the winter - sports are a huge part of Australian culture. We host international sporting events like the Australian Open every year, a highlight on the tennis calendar. Attending a live match or game can be an exhilarating experience, and it’s a fantastic way to connect with locals. Don’t be surprised if conversations often turn to sports, especially during major leagues or the ‘footy’ finals. Also, when Australians say “football,” they’re not talking about soccer. Want to join in? You’re sure to find a local social sports team to sign up with, just ask your student services team on campus for details.
Direct communication
While we’re usually a pretty friendly bunch, Australians can often be a bit blunt in our communication style. It could be the accent. We also tend to be quite upfront with our views and opinions and value honesty. This straightforward approach can be a bit off-putting if you’re not used to it, but it’s generally not meant to offend, so try not to take direct remarks personally. This is, of course, a generalisation. Apologies to any Australians who don’t agree!
Tipping is not common
Unlike in many other countries, tipping for hospitality services is not very common here. Workers are expected to be paid a fair wage by their employers, as we have minimum wage laws. However, tipping for exceptional service is always appreciated.
BBQs are not just a cooking method
Some would consider the humble BBQ lunch or dinner a cultural institution in Australia. Expect to attend many of these gatherings, also referred to as a “barbie”—not to be confused with the doll. Whether at a local park or someone’s backyard, BBQs are communal events where bringing something to share, like a side dish or drinks, is greatly appreciated. There are strict rules about where you can cook food outdoors, so be sure to use only designated cooking areas in public parks.
The landscape is incredibly diverse
Australia is home to a rich variety of natural environments, from Sydney’s world-famous harbour and beaches to the rugged outback and lush rainforests. In and around Sydney, you can hike the stunning trails of the Blue Mountains, explore coastal walks from Bondi to Coogee, or relax by Manly Beach. Beyond the city, there’s the Great Barrier Reef, the ancient landscapes of Uluru, and the sandy shores of the Gold Coast.
If you're keen to explore while you’re here, be sure to ask about student discounts when booking your next adventure.
Swim between the flags
With our vast coastline, beach culture is prominent in Australia. It’s very important that if you want to swim in the ocean, you always do so between the red and yellow flags. These flags indicate that the area is being patrolled by lifesavers. Sadly, it is not uncommon for people to swim outside the flags and be suddenly pulled into currents, rips, or steep drop-offs, finding themselves in trouble very quickly. Stick to the area between the flags and enjoy our beautiful beaches. There are also many ocean pools where you can take a dip to get your saltwater fix.
We're here to guide you
At UNSW College, we are here to support your studying abroad journey every step out of the way.
Our guide to life in Sydney page has more recommendations on everything our city has to offer but dive deeper in our What’s On page for fun campus activities such as Aussie Slang workshops, food tasting events and field trips around Sydney to get you more settled!
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