Australian culture is multifaceted; a true product of the country’s unique place in the world It is friendly, tongue in cheek, and humorously self-depreciating. It is aware of its past while looking forward to its future.
Ancient Roots
Australia is home to one of the oldest continuous societies on Earth. Aboriginal culture has elements that have existed relatively unchanged for over 50,000 years. Rock art, crafted goods and bark paintings all tell the stories of the Dreamtime, a divine time before time when the gods walked the Earth. Songs tell of the Dreamtime in lyrics virtually unchanged for centuries. These same stories also serve as maps for the countryside; making it possible for a person to safely travel the harsh outback.
Colonial Past
Western culture started with in Australia with hard work in a harsh land. Cultural heroes were often criminals and underdogs. These tough beginnings give modern Australia its love of the ‘fair go’ and a a strong sense of equality built from hardship.
A Vibrant and Laid Back Society
The many different cultures of early European immigrants and the native Aboriginal people serve as a foundation for one of the world’s most diverse societies. Many folk, in typical Australian fashion, spend their free time by the beach just enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. Others take in some of the cultural offerings from world famous cultural centers in Brisbane and Adelaide. And still others cheer on their favorite sporting teams at every event.
A Unique Sound
Australians have put their own spin on everything, including the language. The colloquial language is a vivid mixture of old Cockney slang, Irish witticisms and many words from Aboriginal tongues. Even those words that remain unchanged will have flattened vowels. Slang here has reached an art form and books like the Macquaire Book of Slang document it well.
