You Know You're In Australia When...

Some strange things you get used to...

Bug Spray is on weekly shopping list. You spray every night before bedtime, and some of us have a bug zapper IN our house.

Every word is shortened. You start calling that endearing nightly cartoon show "Simps" because it seems normal to do so.

Snags (sausages) are served on a slice of bread.

You're not suprised when the toilets are located outside the building in their own little building.

Every meal or snack with the exception of brekky can be called "tea" - so you make sure you specify which one when inviting friends over for a meal.

Houses and offices are cold in winter and hot in summer. Ducted heating/cooling and double-glazed windows seem like heaven.


And on the plus side...

Coffee is served by professional baristas. Even your plain flat white is gorgeous, and you never want to make instant coffee again.

Waiters & waitresses actually make a good, liveable wage, so tipping is unheard of.

People naturally pitch in and bring food to BBQs.

You get 4 weeks annual leave plus national holidays, and sick leave/family leave.

The country virtually shuts down for Christmas week so everybody can have fun.

You can actually take the bus to work, even if you're not working in the city.

People actually get outside and play sports and ride bikes and take walks.

You can advertise you business by word of mouth and letter-box flyers, and people actually respond.

If you need help, you can pretty much ask anyone. Lots of times you don't even have to ask.