Australia, as the largest portion of the overall Australasia region, is primarily an English-speaking area. However, to listen to the language spoken can be somewhat confusing for those who are not familiar with the accent, slang, and colorful vocabulary terminology. There are also some interesting things to note about the customs, culture and etiquette used in Australia.

Modesty is Important
The overall culture in Australia is one of modesty. Australians tend to shy away from drawing attention to themselves or their accomplishments. Instead, it is more common to find modesty and a kind of self-deprecating humor that draws attention away from any kind of self-focus. As a result, some people may think that Australians are not successful, when in fact they could be very accomplished and skilled. They tend to distrust and dislike any kind of pretentious behavior, which is important to know when socializing in the country. Australians also place a good deal of emphasis on friendships and relationships.

Etiquette in Australia
The overall attitude in Australia is one of casual ease. As a result, introductions are often quite informal, with an emphasis on using a person's first name. Although Australians often use the term "G'day" or "mate," in most cases this doesn't sound right when duplicated by somebody who lives outside the country. If you are only visiting and aren't accustomed to using the local slang in conversation, you are better off to stick with "hello."

Australian Dining Etiquette
Dining invitations are often for a casual barbeque, which locals will call a "barbie." If you are invited to dinner or a barbeque, it is considered polite to be on time. If invited to a barbeque party, it is common for guests to bring their own wine or beer. It is considered polite to ask the host or hostess ahead of time if there is anything that you can bring. It is also polite to offer to assist with the preparation of the meal, or to help clean up afterwards. For more formal dinners, Continental table manners are observed. This includes keeping your hands above the table, but your elbows off of the table. When eating, the fork is held in the left hand while the knife is held in the right.

Business Etiquette
If you are meeting somebody in Australia in a business setting, you will notice a more casual attitude is taken as compared to many other countries. It is important to be punctual, but overall business relations have a relaxed attitude. Australians may use colorful language during business interactions, but you will appear to be more sincere if you just focus on being yourself. Try to keep to the facts in business dealings, since using exaggeration is definitely looked down upon. You should also avoid anything that resembles a high-powered presentation or sales style, and Australians do not expect or appreciate a great deal of negotiations during business transactions. As a general rule, all interactions with people who live in Australia will be very straight-forward and direct, as they are certainly not shy about expressing their opinions.