Australia
Country Overview
The Commonwealth of Australia consists of the Australian mainland, the island of Tasmania, and several small islands in the surrounding Pacific and Indian oceans. Although Australia was first discovered in 1606 by the Dutch, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that it was settled by Europeans. After the British claimed the eastern front of the island and established New South Wales, gold was discovered, which quickly led to mass European exploration.
Australia is simultaneously the world’s largest island and smallest continent. Indonesia, East Timor and Papua New Guinea are neighbors to the north, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia lie to the northeast, and New Zealand is off the southeast coast. The country’s landscape is as diverse as its culture. The majority of the Australian population inhabits the larger metropolitan cities such as Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney, leaving a large dusty expanse in the middle known as the Outback. Australia is also home to spectacular World Heritage parks and one of the seven wonders of the natural world: the Great Barrier Reef. Be sure to visit all you can while on your AIDE program!
Culture
Australia is a very egalitarian society, and there are strong anti-discrimination laws in place. Australians have an informal and relaxed approach to life and prefer to be outdoors. Australians have a distinct sense of humor that can be perceived as brash by foreigners. However, Australians are friendly, outgoing, and welcoming to non-natives. Within the last few decades, Australian culture has, in many ways, been influenced by American culture as a result of TV and cinema. You will find nightlife to be active and group outings to be frequent.
Aussies are also known to be frequent spectators and players of a variety of sports. Cricket, rugby, swimming and cycling are among the most popular, but surfing, basketball, yachting, golf and soccer are also common. Throughout Australia, access to nature is prevalent and Aussies take great pride in the country’s natural beauty. Australia is the number one country in terms of skin cancer, so don’t forget your hat and sunscreen, especially in the middle of the day.
Travel Tips
Tipping is not customary in Australia, although service charges may be added to bills by hotels and restaurants on weekends and public holidays. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped, although Australians will often round up to the nearest dollar. In more expensive restaurants, it is usual to tip waiters up to 10% for exceptional service. At any time, tipping is your choice, and you should consider the service you are receiving.
Taking the bus is by far the cheapest way to move around Australia, and perfect if you want to stop off along the way to do sightseeing. Travel by rail, as in any country, is another great option to see the country and this comfortable mode of transport is perhaps a happy medium between bus and air. Given the tremendous size of Australia, air travel is an attractive option, and you can get more reasonable fares if you book well in advance.
Even if you are well-traveled, your clothes and accent may make you look like a tourist to many Australians. Like most countries, Australia has crime, so taking some precautions will ensure your stay is a safe one. Most areas are safe in the day, but there are certainly areas to avoid at night. Ask your roommates, host family, or employer to provide guidance if you are unsure. Trains will have “blue light” carriages at night, and these are the safest compartments in which to travel at that time. Always keep your bags close to you and know where your valuables are. Theft often occurs from bags placed under a chair or table.
Australia operates on 220-240 volts. If you are taking personal electrical appliances, you will require a plug that has two or three flat prongs forming a V-shape.
Go!
Learn more about our internship opportunities in Australia or our Work Australia programs!