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Australia is truly a melting pot of cultures. A recent survey revealed that 26% of Australia's population was born overseas, and a further 20% had at least one overseas-born parent*. This means it won't be uncommon for you to hear many different languages spoken around you, especially in the larger cities.
While English is the official language of Australia, it may seem sometimes that the Australian way of speaking is a language on its own. Australians like to abbreviate words and can use some local slang that may be unfamiliar to you at first.
For example:- You may be invited to a 'barbie' (barbeque) at a friend's place one 'arvo' (afternoon).
- You may even be asked to 'shout' (pay for) a round of drinks at the pub.
You will find that Australians dress quite casually. You can choose to wear your national dress, or your religious or customary items, such as burquas, hijabs and turbans.
You can find out more about Australia's culture here.
*Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics www.abs.gov.au
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Australians love their sport - in fact it's estimated that one-third of Australia's population are registered with a sporting organisation*. The most watched sport in Australia is Australian Football League (AFL). Citibank is proud to sponsor last year's AFL grand finalists, the Sydney Swans.
Major sporting events include
We also love a good festival. With over 6 million migrants* living in Australia, we celebrate and observe a number of religious and cultural events. Some of the highlights include:
Major festivals include:
Check out the Australian Government website for a complete list.
*Source Australian Bureau of Statistics www.abs.gov.au
Explore, play, discover
With such a multi-cultural population, Australia has a wonderful range of international cuisine on offer - Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, Indian, Thai and Italian restaurants are commonly found. Chow down in Chinatown, pick out the perfect pasta, devour expertly crafted dumplings or enjoy a Spanish tapas feast.
If you're a Citibank cardholder, you'll receive a free bottle of award winning1 wine every time you dine and use your card to pay at partner restaurants. Partners are located across the country and include some of Australia's best restaurants, from expensive hatted restaurants right through to local family favourites.
During October, Citibank sponsors the Crave Sydney International Food Festival in Sydney, a four week long celebration of our love of food. There's exciting events to attend, such as the Night Noodle Markets, which transform Hyde Park into an authentic hawker-style market for handmade roti, delicious dumplings and more noodles than you can poke a pair of chopsticks at. Citibank customers receive exclusive VIP access to such events - just another way we reward you.
Many Australians do their shopping at supermarkets. You'll also find 24-hour convenience stores in larger cities. Halal food is readily available in supermarkets and specialised butchers.
Whilst all religions are respected in Australia, the majority of Australia's population is mostly of Christian denomination, and religious events including Easter and Christmas are celebrated.
Many national holidays fall on a Monday, giving you an extra-long weekend for you to explore Australia.
There are two national holidays that are unique to Australia:
Australia Day is celebrated on 26 January, and commemorates the arrival of European settlers in Sydney in 1788. It's a time to get together with friends and celebrate over a picnic or barbeque.
Anzac Day is observed on 25 April, and honours the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli during World War 1 in 1915. It more broadly commemorates those soldiers who have served and died for their country and is commemorated with marches and parades.
There are also some public holidays unique to each state. As an example, Victoria has a public holiday during November to celebrate Melbourne Cup day. For a full list of public holidays, please click here.
Explore, play, discover
Over 80 percent of Australians live within 50 kilometres of the coast*. Much of Australia's most loved traditions revolve around the beach - whether it's family holidays at coastal getaways, partying on packed city beaches, surfing, snorkelling and celebrating big events like New Year's Eve.
You'll find all sorts of events on the beach, from citizenship ceremonies, to the 40,000 visitors who make their way to Bondi beach to celebrate Christmas day.
From stunning harbours, to white beaches, beautiful natural landscapes and expansive parklands. Australia offers something for everyone. Visit Tourism Australia's official website here.
*Source: Australia.com