Culture and lifestyle

Australia is a relaxed, multicultural society that hosts students from more than 200 countries. Day-to-day life centres around the outdoors, sport, food, and a famously flat social style — first names with everyone, regardless of seniority.

The basics

• English is the common language; many cities are highly multilingual.
• Tipping is uncommon and never expected.
• Public transport is good in major cities; you'll need a contactless transport card (Opal in NSW, Myki in VIC, etc.).
• Australia drives on the left.

Climate

Hugely varied — from tropical Darwin and the Sunshine Coast to cool-temperate Hobart. Most major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth) have mild winters by international standards.

Food and groceries

Coles and Woolworths are the major supermarkets, with Aldi a cheaper alternative. Asian groceries, halal butchers, and international food shops are common in larger cities.