Australia is among the most sought-after study-abroad destinations, and it is acclaimed for valid reasons. It has some of the best universities in the world, making it a hub for quality education. The liberal post-study visa rules assure excellent career prospects for international students who want to work and settle in the country eventually. The country has an open and friendly environment and embraces people from all nationalities and cultures with open arms.

Before you set your eyes on your Australian dream, you need to understand the etiquette you need to follow in the country. It will enable you to adapt to the culture and lifestyle effortlessly. Here are the facts you need to know.

ADDRESSING PEOPLE

Men and women shake hands when they meet and greet during formal situations. You can address an Australian by their first name as they prefer it that way. For addressing people with authority, you must use their family names along with titles such as Dr, Miss, Mr, or Mrs. Expect your teachers and lecturers to tell you how they want to be addressed during the introductory session. If you are not sure about it, ask them.

CONVERSATION GUIDELINES

Steer clear of personal topics, and avoid getting into arguments during conversations. Refrain from discussing personal relationships, politics, religion, and salary or income unless you know someone well enough. Greeting strangers is apt in Australia. You may say no to things you want to avoid, such as not accepting an invitation and avoiding drugs and alcohol.

DRESSING RULES

As a student, you can dress casually in public and at university. The dress code in summer is cool and comfortable as the weather is very warm. But you must dress formally for occasions such as class presentations, graduations, and dinner functions. You will be informed about the dress code in advance for such occasions, and you must stick with it.

QUEUING & PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Australians are particular about queuing while waiting at banks, public transport facilities, or shopping malls. Pushing ahead in a queue is considered impolite, so you must never do it. People value their privacy and personal space, and you must leave more space when queuing or talking to others. When boarding a bus, train, or tram, wait for others to get off before you step in.

PUNCTUALITY

Punctuality is crucial in Australia, so you must double-check meeting times and places. Inform the person you plan to meet if running late or unable to keep the appointment. Being late for a medical appointment can be expensive as you may have to pay a fee or miss the appointment altogether.

SMOKING

You cannot smoke on public transport and in cinemas, restaurants, and public buildings, such as universities, schools, libraries, and hospitals in Australia. It is illegal in these places, and you can be fined. If you want to smoke at someone's place, excuse yourself and go outside to smoke.

SOCIAL GATHERINGS

If someone invites you for a dinner, party, or BBQ, reply to the invitation and be there on time. Make sure you dress for the occasion, as you will have to dress formally at a wedding. You are expected to share the bill at a restaurant if dining with a friend or a group. You do not have to tip in restaurants, though you may do it as a token of appreciation for good service.

Knowing these social etiquette guidelines and following them can make it easy to blend in with the Australian culture as an outsider. You can handle the situations better at the university, hostel, work, and social gatherings.