Now that you’ve settled into your new home, it’s time to get out and experience what your city has to offer and soak up some of that classic Aussie culture. Remember that this is going to be a big change in your life and culture shock is totally normal.
Australians have their own unique way of speaking, a distinctly relaxed lifestyle, and an exciting arts and music scene - here’s what you can expect!
It’s time for a scavenger hunt!
See how many of the following you can spot around your new city:
A jar of Australia’s signature salty spread
(Hint: it has a yellow and red label)
One of Australia’s iconic local animals
(think koalas, kangaroos, kookaburras…)
An Aussie flower or plant
(there are over 24,000 native flora and fauna species here - it won’t be hard!)
A classic Aussie dish
(we recommend a lamington or a meat pie)
The country’s favourite beverage
(hint: caffeinated, and some call it the best in the world)
Your state or territory flag
(each has its own unique flag - look up your local one!)
One of the more difficult parts of learning a language is getting a handle on the local slang. Here are a few examples of Australian slang you might hear in everyday conversation:
To be excited for something
It will be fine
No
Yes
Extremely busy
Study break/revision period
To avoid work or responsibility
Friend - anyone from a new acquaintance to your closest friend
An abbreviation of General Practitioner, the general doctor you would see for a non-urgent complaint or illness
An abbreviation of ambulance
Sick
To fake a sick day and get out of classes
Orientation Week - also known as O-Week - is your introduction to your new education provider, campus and peers. To help you make the most of this exciting week, we’ve put together the ultimate O-Week checklist.
Here’s what you’ll want to do to start your academic year on the right foot:
Get your student ID card, confirm your enrolment in your courses, and buy your books. Sorting these things out will set you up as a student.
You’re going to be spending a lot of time on campus, so you want to make sure you know it well.
Take a guided tour or stroll around on your own to find your lecture halls, the library and more.
At O-Week, there will be various booths dedicated to student clubs and societies.
Explore the clubs on offer, ask questions, and if something piques your interest, sign up!
From information sessions to BBQ lunches, O-Week is packed with events. Be sure to attend as many as you can to get the full experience!
O-Week is a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Don’t be afraid to chat with the people around you to start forming these connections.
There’s no better way to embrace Australian culture than with a few Aussie films and TV series. Some titles to check out include:
Dive into Australian music and discover sounds that reflect the country’s diverse culture. Here’s a list by genre to get you started:
A timeless anthem from Australia’s rock legends.
Passionate, lyric-driven rock that stirs the soul.
A hypnotic melody that defines modern psychedelic music.
Reflecting on her Gamilaraay heritage, Plum’s music is a rich indie tapestry.
A classic, catchy hit that defines a generation, from Australia’s Queen of Pop herself.
A soaring ballad from one of the most powerful voices down under.
Masters of Aussie hip-hop with an undeniable groove.
Energetic beats with a blend of English and Yolņu Matha language.
Emotional storytelling with a melodic charm.
A country sound with deep, heartfelt roots.
