Chapter 10 of 15

Language & Culture

Australian English, slang, workplace culture and communication style

Summary

Australia is an English-speaking country, which is an advantage for most Dutch people. However, Australian English has its own expressions, slang, and an accent that takes some getting used to. More important is the cultural adjustment: Australian work culture, humor, and social customs differ subtly but significantly from Dutch ones. This chapter helps you understand the language and culture.

What you need to know

Australian English

The Australian accent sounds different from British or American English. Characteristics:

Short vowels are pronounced longer ("day" sounds like "die")
Rising intonation at the end of sentences (sounds like a question)

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11. Working & Entrepreneurship

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Complete Emigration Guide Australia

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Knowledge Base

Emigrating to Australia
Complete guide for emigrating to Australia.
Cost of living in Australia
Overview of cost of living in Australia.
Australia visa points system
Australian visa system explained.
Medicare Australia
Everything about Medicare in Australia.
Taxes in Australia
Explanation of the Australian tax system.

Glossary

TFN (Tax File Number)
The Australian tax number. Essential for working (otherwise 47% tax is withheld), opening a bank account and superannuation. Apply at the ATO after arrival.
Medicare (Australia)
The Australian public healthcare system. Covers GP visits, hospital care and medicines (via PBS). The Netherlands has an agreement with Australia — you can access Medicare with your EHIC.
Superannuation (Super)
The Australian mandatory pension savings. Your employer deposits 11.5% of your salary into a super fund. You can choose your super fund. When leaving Australia you can (partially) claim your super back.
ABN (Australian Business Number)
The Australian business number for self-employed and businesses. Free to apply for. Without an ABN, 47% no-ABN withholding tax is withheld on payments.
Centrelink (Government Services)
The Australian government service for social benefits: unemployment, child benefit, care allowances. Access via myGov. Wait times are notoriously long.
ATO (Australian Taxation Office)
The Australian tax office. Tax year runs from July 1 to June 30. Returns due by October 31 (or later via a tax agent). Many Australians use a tax agent.
Skilled Visa (subclass 189/190/491)
The main visa categories for skilled migrants. 189 = independent, 190 = state-nominated, 491 = regional. Your occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List.
PAYG (Pay As You Go)
The Australian payroll tax system: your employer withholds tax directly. As a self-employed person you pay PAYG instalments (quarterly prepayments).
PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme)
The Australian medicine subsidy program. Subsidizes medicine costs. With Medicare you pay maximum ~$31 per prescription (or ~$7.70 with concession card).
myGov (Government Portal)
The central online portal for Australian government services: ATO, Medicare, Centrelink. Comparable to MijnOverheid.nl. Create an account as soon as you have a TFN.