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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*. It will not be uncommon for you to hear many different languages spoken around you, especially in the larger cities.
Whilst 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, call each other by questionable nicknames, and use some local slang that may be unfamiliar to you at first.
Don't worry - it won't be long before you find yourself 'flat out' (busy) studying at exam time, or accepting an invitation to a 'barbie' (barbeque) at a friend's place one 'arvo' (afternoon).
When you meet someone for the first time, you may wish to call them by their title and family time. It is likely that they will request that you call them by their first name! It's common practice to also shake your new acquaintance's hand with your right hand, and avoid talking about personal matters. It is a sign of respect to look people in the eye when you are speaking with them.
After first meetings, Australians tend to be quite informal in their daily interactions. Your lecturers may ask you to call them by their first name. However, it is polite to use words such as 'please', 'thank you', 'sorry' and 'excuse me'. While informal, it is still common practice to be on time for your lectures, tutorials, shifts at work and other meetings.
In terms of dress, you'll find that most of your fellow university students will wear casual clothing. You can choose to wear your national dress, or your religious or customary items, such as burquas, hijabs and turbans.
*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 award winning. Your university will offer a range of sporting clubs and societies which you can join. 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
*Source www.australia.com
The following festivals and events are also observed and celebrated
National
Many cities
Many cities
National
Many cities
Many cities
*Source www.australia.com
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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.
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Citibank's Dining Program is operated by Pinpoint Pty Ltd ABN 49 002 693 656 and Zenith Wine Agencies Pty Ltd ABN 66 128 399 717 and is open to Citibank cardholders. For more information about how to use this program, please refer to www.citibankdining.com.au
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 per cent 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: Tourism Australia www.australia.com