The political environment is stable and particularly conducive to a higher living standard. Therefore, despite slightly lower salaries compared to cities like New York, since public services are plentiful and generous and people living in Australia don't have the feeling they are struggling to make ends meet, the lower pay scale has not been a detriment to potential immigrants. The environment is relatively drug-free compared to declining societies such as those of the United States and Europe. Immigrants who come to live here may be surprised to find they are dealing with businessman who are both honest and candid.