GS AUSTRALIA SPECIAL - In association with IDP Education

Australia has a multicultural society, established by migrants from all over the world. So if you are from another country, religion or you dress or eat differently you need not feel isolated in today's Australia. And for most international students, exploring cultural differences is one of the most rewarding things about living and studying in Australia

Australians are a friendly bunch, which makes it easier to meet new people and develop friendships. In fact, many international students have been surprised by the friendliness of Australians, often telling stories of strangers helping them on the street.

"Many international students and their relatives have imagined that there are only white people in Australia," says Indonesian student Natalia Satya. "We didn't expect it to be as multicultural as it is. In fact, there are very few locals who match the Aussie stereotype of Crocodile Dundee. Many Aussies don't even have a typical Australian accent, instead they might have an Italian or Lebanese or South African background and a slight accent."

Another benefit of studying in Australia is that you can make friends with people from all over the world. To Australians, cultural diversity is part of their national identity, with a population from some 140 different countries.

If you want to make friends with an Aussie you just need to have a sense of humour and be open-minded!

Religious tolerance
Australia is home to a diverse range of religions such as Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism. Minority religions are also given equal rights to land, status, and building of places of worship. Australia's Constitution protects your right to freely observe your religion.

You will also find support for your religious beliefs at your educational institution. Australian universities will usually have facilities that you can use for religious purposes and there is a range of religious clubs on campus to cater for students of various faiths.

A variety of festivals and food
You can celebrate your festivals and events openly in Australia. Even Christmas in Australia has become a multicultural festival as old, new and various traditions blend. Also, there are numerous multicultural organisations and communities in Australia that you can join and gain support from.

Australia is a haven when it comes to the variety of food available. There are restaurants and cafés of nearly all ethnic backgrounds in most cities and regional centres. If you have special food needs Australia can also cater for you. For example, Australia's largest grocery stores, Coles and Woolworths, stock halal products in many outlets. Australia has lots of special grocery stores for European, Asian, Indian and Middle-Eastern spices and specialities as well as shops for vegetarians, vegan or kosher food, and butchers who prepare halal meat.

And, thanks to Australia's multicultural history, there is also a range of international restaurants in all cities and towns, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, Malaysian, Turkish, Italian, Japanese and Mexican. Institution residences, boarding houses and cafeterias usually serve some vegetarian meals and dishes from a variety of cultures.

Article contributed by IDP.com

Image copyright: Tourism Australia