Australian Etiquette & Customs

Meeting Etiquette
. Australians are not very formal so greetings are casual and relaxed.
. A handshake and smile suffices.
. While an Australian may say, 'G'day' or 'G'day, mate', this may sound patronizing from a foreigner. Visitors should simply say, 'Hello' or 'Hello, how are you?'
. Aussies prefer to use first names, even at the initial meeting

Gift Giving Etiquette
. Small gifts are commonly exchanged with family members, close friends, and neighbours on birthdays and Christmas.
. Trades people such as sanitation workers may be given a small amount of cash, or more likely, a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer!
. If invited to someone's home for dinner, it is polite to bring a box of chocolates or flowers to the hostess. A good quality bottle of wine is always appreciated.
. Gifts are opened when received.

Dining Etiquette
. Many invitations to an Aussies home will be for a 'barbie' (BBQ).
. Guests to a barbeque typically bring wine or beer for their personal consumption. In some cases, very informal barbecues may suggest that you bring your own meat!
. Arrive on time if invited to dinner; no more than 15 minutes late if invited to a barbeque or a large party.
. Contact the hostess ahead of time to see if she would like you to bring a dish.
. Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.

Watch your table manners!
. Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
. Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.
. Keep your elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Get More Information

Culture

Laman