Are you considering moving abroad and seeking a new life in Australia? The Land Down Under is one of the most beautiful and exciting countries to live in and many Brits choose to emigrate there for the endless sunshine, outdoor adventures and laid back pace of life.

However, living in Australia is not always exactly how you imagine it. When you move to Australia with the help of a company like The Emigration Group you realize that some things are different than you thought they would be and some myths you may have heard of are not true. Here are some of the myths and truths that you will discover when you are living abroad in Australia.

Truth: There is a High Risk of Skin Cancer

Australia unfortunately sits right underneath a hole in the ozone layer, which means that the residents there are at a higher risk of skin cancer from all of the UV rays. The Australian Cancer Council states that two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70. It is very important to avoid the direct sun in the heat of the day and wear sunscreen and a hat at all times.

Myth: There are Dangerous Deadly Creatures Everywhere

Australia is known for being a place where dangerous and deadly animals such as spiders, snakes and sharks are waiting around every corner to poison you and eat you alive. However, the danger of the Australian wildlife is greatly exaggerated. You are not likely to encounter anything deadly when you are living in urban Sydney or Melbourne, you are only at risk when you are out walking in the remote bush or swimming in the ocean. According to the stats, only five people per year die from wildlife attacks in Australia.

Truth: Drinking is a Huge Part of the Culture

Dying from an alcohol related cause in Australia is much more likely than getting bitten by a poisonous spider. In fact, 15 Australians die every day from alcohol-related illnesses and injuries. Australians have a reputation for loving their drink, but in some situations this becomes excessive and becomes a negative thing.

If you don’t want alcohol to affect your life negatively in this way it will be important to find a balance between joining your Aussie friends for a few beers and drinking to excess. If you can keep your drinking in moderation it can be a fun part of living in Australia without having a dangerous effect on your health.

Myth: Australians are Uncouth and Offensive

Australians often get a reputation for being uncouth, politically incorrect and brash. This doesn’t necessarily mean that Australians are rude and disrespectful, it just means that they tend to laugh at themselves and not take anything as too sacred or serious. This can sometimes come across as improper when compared to the social etiquette of other cultures.

However, Australians are far from boorish and unsophisticated. They are very highly educated, well read and hard working. When you are getting to know your Australian friends don’t take their jokes too seriously – any teasing or inappropriate humour is meant in a fun and playful way.

Truth: You’ll Find It Easy to Make Friends

Australians are very fun-loving, laid back, friendly and welcoming people. When you move to the Land Down Under you might not have a lot of friends when you first get here, but it won’t take you long to find some when you arrive. Don’t be afraid to say hello to your neighbours or start a conversation with strangers at the pub or the coffee shop. Most workplaces will meet after work on Friday for happy hour drinks, so feel free to join in with your new co-workers. After a while you will have established a new group of friends in Australia and you will start to feel more at home in your new location.

These are just a few myths and truths about living in Australia. When you apply for your Australian visas for UK citizens, live there for a while and get to know what it is like, you’ll start to recognise the difference between perception and reality. Although the same language is spoken as in the UK, Australian living is quite different and there will still be a period of culture shock and adjustment.