Australia’s culture is a unique blend of ancient and modern, outback and urban, humility and cheekiness. It’s hard to find a way of life more diverse and friendly than this country's. What forces shaped Australia’s culture, and what are the key features of Aussie culture today?
Australia's Cultural Influences
The history of Australian culture has roots with its indigenous peoples. With strong spiritual traditions rooted in the mythos of Dreamtime, Australia’s first natives valued their strong connections to each other and to the land. Today's Australian lingo contains many borrowed words from various indigenous dialects—such as kangaroo and boomerang—and contemporary art is often inspired by Dreamtime beliefs.
Culture in Australia has also been influenced by its immigrants. The year 1788 saw the arrival of outside settlers, mainly from the British Isles, who had been sent to establish penal colonies. The settlers were often accompanied by convicts, most of whom were guilty of petty crimes such as larceny. The language and traditions of Great Britain were quite dominant among the settlers, adding to the existing Australian culture.
The Australian gold rushes of the 1850s attracted many immigrant prospectors, often called “diggers.” Not only did these diggers invigorate the economy, but they contributed new skills and professions. Many diggers remained in Australia after the gold rushes ended. Digger lifestyle and gold rush environments influenced the formation of unique communities based on unity and mateship. These values are still key aspects of Australian culture today.
After World War II, Australia began immigration programs to increase population. “New Australians,” as they were sometimes called, came chiefly from the British Isles, but also from other European nations—notably Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands—and China. The country's culture became a melting pot of traditions from all over the world.
Australia has worked hard to integrate the various ethnic groups residing there. Together, communities have developed an inclusive Australian culture that welcomes indigenous peoples, immigrants, and others who call Australia home.
Key Values in Australian Culture
Mateship has long been considered a defining value of the Australian people. Derived from the common Australian appellation “mate,” it includes not only friendship, but respect, equality, and loyalty. Good “mates” are always there to lend a hand and help out in hard times.
Along with mateship, Australian culture values equality. Relationships tend to operate on equal footing rather than on hierarchy or authority. Everyone is seen as having the right to a “fair go,” and Australians are quick to support the underdog. Conversely, they have little tolerance for “tall poppies”—those who vaunt themselves or their successes—and are likely to “cut them down to size.”
Aussies are also known for being laid-back and informal, both in behavior and language. Common phrases like “No worries, mate” and “She’ll be right” typify that relaxed attitude.
Perhaps the combination of these traits leads to another key trait in Australia: optimism. One of Australia’s nicknames is “The Lucky Country.” Ironically, it was originally used in a negative light, but with their characteristic optimism, Aussies have flipped the meaning so it refers to the opportunity and abundance available in Australia.
Aussie Food and Pastimes
A 2022 survey revealed that cooking and baking constitute one of the most popular hobbies among Australians. With seafood readily available and with treats like pavlova and lamingtons, it’s no wonder!
Aussies love their sports. Football is one of the more popular Australian pastimes. However, Aussies will spend many hours watching and playing any and all kinds of sports, such as cricket, tennis, golf, rugby—you name it! Beach activities are just as enjoyed as the traditional sports, which include volleyball, swimming, and surfing.
Bushwalking (the term used for hiking in the Australian bush) is a pastime enjoyed by many Aussies. Not only is it great exercise, but the lush bushlands are home to many of Australia’s native flora and fauna, leading to hours of discovery and enjoyment.
With the vast variety of animals in Australia, it’s not surprising that Aussies enjoy visiting zoos, wildlife parks, and aquariums. Those who are feeling particularly brave can visit Crocosaurus Cove and see crocodiles up close in the water from within a protective tube.
Music and Literature in Australian Culture
Prior to the 20th century, music in Australia reflected 3 main influences: indigenous music from the Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders, which uses wind and percussive instruments, British classical music brought by the early free settlers, and traditional British folk songs that were favored by sailors and early convicts. Australian contemporary music includes many genres and tends to follow trends similar to those in the US, UK, and similar nations.
Indigenous peoples did not have a system of writing prior to British colonization, so the earliest writing about them was done by European explorers or missionaries. As time passed, indigenous writers began to create their own literature in English. Today, with indigenous languages enjoying something of a revival, it is likely that more literature will be written in these languages.
The literature of early colonists was heavily influenced by the literary traditions of their homelands. Over time, Australian literature evolved to reflect Australian cultural themes, such as patriotism and life in the bush and outback.
Your Journey of Discovery
Many influences converged to make Australian culture what it is today—it’s easy to see why Aussies love living in Australia! Do you have ancestors or family members that have lived in Australia? Do you have stories to tell about Australian culture? Take some time to record those memories for your future family!
Resources for You
- Australia Genealogy (FamilySearch Wiki)
- Australia Genealogy Research (FamilySearch Community)
- Beginning Australian Research (FamilySearch Learning Center)
- Australia Historical Records (FamilySearch Historical Records)
- RootsTech Videos
Read Other Articles about Australia
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