Many common Australian expressions or slang may seem strange. Australians often shorten words (for example, ‘footy’ for ‘football’). If you are unsure what an expression means, it is acceptable to ask. Some common examples are:
Bring a plate – when you are invited to a social or work function and asked to "bring a plate", this means to bring a dish of food to share with other people.
BYO – this means to “bring your own” drink, for example alcohol, juice, soft drink or water. Some restaurants are BYO, which means you can bring your own bottled drinks. If you BYO, there is usually a charge for providing and cleaning glasses, called “corkage”.
Open door policy – in the workplace, having an “open door policy” means that you and other employees do not need a formal appointment to speak with the boss about problems or other work issues.
See you later – this is an informal way of saying “goodbye”. It does not mean that the person will be returning in the near future.
Your English language provider will help you with Australian expressions. See Chapter 3, English language.
Outdoor activities and safety
Australia is well suited to outdoor activities, like swimming, bushwalking, camping and sport. There are safety rules to remember.
Swimming and outdoor safety
Attend swimming and water safety classes if you or your children cannot swim.
Swimming in the ocean can be extremely dangerous. To enjoy the beach safely:
Always swim between the red and yellow flags which mark the area supervised by lifeguards.
Do not swim at the beach if you cannot find the red and yellow flags or if there are signs indicating that swimming is not advised or the beach is closed.
The ocean can be unpredictable. Observe warning signs to avoid accidents such as slipping on ocean rocks, or being swept into the sea by large waves or high tides. Be extremely careful fishing from rocks as many people have drowned after being swept into the water by large waves.
Be careful when swimming in rivers, lakes and dams:
Always check the depth of the water and for submerged objects before entering the water.
Check for signs indicating hazards (such as crocodiles or pollution) and obey them.
Avoid swimming, fishing or bushwalking alone. Tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back. Take plenty of food and water.
Some snakes and spiders in Australia are poisonous. If bitten, immobilise the bitten limb and get medical help by calling triple zero000.
In spring, song birds called magpies defend their territories by swooping on pedestrians and cyclists. Signs may warn of swooping birds. These birds are protected, so try to avoid their attacks by avoiding their nesting areas, wearing hats and sunglasses, or carrying a stick or umbrella above your head.
The sun in Australia is very strong. Wear a hat, protective clothing and sunscreen on sunny days to avoid sunburn. This is especially important for young children.
Take notice of weather forecasts. Open fires and barbeques are not permitted on total fire ban days. The Bureau of Meteorology provides weather warnings at www.bom.gov.au/index.php
In Australian cities, like most world cities, assaults do occur, particularly at night. Be aware of your personal safety. Avoid parks, dark places and known trouble spots.
For more information:
Information sources
Website
Bureau of Meteorology – weather forecasts and fire bans
www.bom.gov.au/weather
Royal Life Saving Society – swimming and water safety
