Culture
From mounted cops to public parks: 5 things that ‘shocked’ an Indian-origin woman in Australia
Moving abroad for education or employment is a common choice for many people. However, relocating to a new country also comes with the challenge of adjusting to a different environment, culture and way of life.
Yet, the experience is not always as difficult as one might anticipate.
Disha Shah, an Indian-origin woman living in Australia, recently shared her experience of adjusting to life in the country. In an Instagram video, she listed five things that have "shocked her" as someone who originated from India.
Shops close at 5 PM — and they really mean it
Coming from India, where many shops remain open until late at night, this was a genuine adjustment for Shah.
"Need something at 6 PM on a Saturday? You better plan ahead because many shops are already closed… and nobody thinks it’s strange!" she said.
However, several users have contradicted her claim stating several shops remain open late.
Police officers on horses in the city
Seeing mounted police officers in the middle of the city is another experience that continues to surprise her.
"You’re walking through the CBD, minding your own business, and suddenly there’s a police officer riding a horse. Completely normal here… but it still shocks me every time!" Shah said.
The first-name culture
The informal use of first names is another major cultural difference she noticed.
"No ma’am. No sir. No aunty or uncle," Shah said, explaining that bosses, teachers and doctors are commonly addressed by their first names.
"Your boss is Sarah. Your teacher is James. Your doctor is Michael. Everyone is on a first-name basis!" she added.
People actually leave work on time
Shah also pointed to Australia's workplace culture as something that surprised her.
According to her, staying back late at work is not considered a badge of honour. Instead, people place greater importance on personal time, family and weekends.
"Work-life balance is genuinely a priority here!" she said.
Public parks are next level
Australia's public parks also left a strong impression on Shah.
She highlighted the availability of free BBQ facilities, clean public toilets, beautiful walking tracks, playgrounds and picnic areas.
"And the best part? Most of it is completely FREE and genuinely well maintained," she said.
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