By J.C. Lewis
Australia is one of the world's most developed nations in terms of standards of living. Its diverse climate and multicultural society contribute to a specifically Australian culture and lifestyle.
Diversity
Australia has a significant foreign-born population, so the nation is culturally and ethnically diverse. This means Australia provides its people with a wide range of cuisines, arts and culture from all around the world. Although racism exists, Australia has an inclusive society in which equality is highly valued.
Quality of Life
Australia is a rich, modern nation whose population enjoy high quality state-provided health care and educational systems, and have long life expectancies.
Australians have some of the world's highest income levels, a smaller gap between the rich and poor than many developed nations, and a welfare system that provides for the poor.
Activities
Australia's abundant natural beauty, temperate climate and mainly coastal population means Australians spend a lot of time outdoors, at the beach and playing sports.
Interior
The arid desert interior region of Australia has an extremely low population density, with sheep farming as the main economic activity. Life in these regions outside the cities is secluded and sparse.
Sports
Many Australians participate in organized sports and have great pride in its international standing at competitive events. Favorite sports for Australians to watch and play are rugby, cricket, swimming and "Aussie Rules" football.
British Influence
Australia was once a British colony, and life in Australia retains some of that influence: the Queen is the head of state, English is the national language, cars drive on the left, cricket and rugby are popular and tea-drinking and pubs are ingrained in popular culture.
About the Author:
J.C. Lewis is the editor and co-owner of a weekly newspaper, as well as a staffer and regular contributor to a group of three newspapers in Los Angeles, Calif. Her writing has appeared on USAToday.com, Hotels.com and various other websites. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in politics from the University of Bristol, England.
