Australia Society and Culture
Australia has a very diverse culture and lifestyle. Australia's original inhabitants, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, are the custodians of one of the world's oldest continuing cultural traditions.
Within the framework of Australia's laws, all Australians have the right to express their culture and beliefs and to participate freely in Australia's national life. Everyone is expected to uphold the principles and shared values that support Australia's way of life. These include:
respect for equal worth, dignity and freedom of the individual
freedom of speech and association
freedom of religion and a secular government
support for parliamentary democracy and the rule of law
equality under the law
equality of men and women
equality of opportunity
peacefulness
a spirit of egalitarianism that embraces tolerance, mutual respect, and compassion for those in need.
Australia also holds firmly to the belief that no one should be disadvantaged on the basis of their country of birth, cultural heritage, language, gender or religious belief.
The unemployment rate is relatively low (in December 2007 it was 4.3 per cent) and the gross per capita income is around $39 000. All people are equal under the law in Australia and all Australians have the right to be respected and treated in a fair manner.