I’m Australian, AMA

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I'm an Australian. AMA

Do you have any issues with people arriving from poorer countries in 'small boats', like we do in the UK (and other parts of Europe)... or are you too far away for this to be a thing in the first place?

If you do get this, how are the incomers treated - considering how notoriously strict Oz is in whom they do and don't allow to move there to live?

I’ve also seen more negative feelings in articles towards immigrants, especially towards Indians who I believe now make up the biggest new population. Is this having a real impact?

Not so much about taking jobs as there is a skills shortage across a lot of sectors but housing can be hard, the rental market is tight so there can be some negativity

Are there any kangaroos around your area?

Indigenous people make up around 4% of the population. Not really separate. It is a huge topic

Very dependent on the suburb. Unless you're in an expensive beaching suburb, most people would drive

Am I right to find kangaroos terrifying?

Im in Qld. So dark by 5pm in winter. 7.30pm in summer. We'd love to have daylight saving

Boys have a school uniform too. Some schools are just more casual about it

I'd like to say no. Domestic abuse is at epidemic levels so unfortunately this is true. And racism is certainly becoming more overt

Yes we do, however as you've said, they're pretty harshly dealt with and sent to immigration detention. There's ongoing debate about the ethics and human rights of sending illegal immigrants to offshore detention

Yes it is. There's a politician promoting a 'monoculture' which is negatively impacting the very large Indian community. Indians do make up a large component of our IT, health care and care sectors

I remember reading quite a shocking article about one of those offshore detention centres. Quite a few years ago now but conditions were horrific there.

Yes. Plus there's a lot of debate about sending illegal arrivals off to our poorer pacific nation neighbours

Do you only consider white and indigenous Australians as Australians?

I am developing a theory - based on a few Australians that I've met- that Australians are all extroverts. It can't be true but it does seem that way. What do you think about my theory ?

Me personally? No. But I live in one of the most multicultural areas of the state.

You still haven’t answered this question. I’m interested in what your average Aussie thinks about this.

Fair question. It is controversial but doesn't generate the same amount of active debate that I see in the UK. Other than older white males, it isnt really hotly discussed

Is the heat oppressive? Does it stop you doing things?

Yes and yes! Sometimes it is just too energy sapping to do much

Have you seen the films The Year My Voice Broke and Flirting?

I’ll ask you what everyone else is thinking…

Spiders. They’re a real massive issue aren’t they? That’s the reason most people leave. And why baddies got sent there in the olden days. How do they affect your life?

And also Possum. They look cute but they bite don’t they? Can you keep them as pets?

I am laughing at some of the questions here as I have lived in Australia and have family back there too and we talk regularly. Have also been back to visit and fully assume my kids will do a year out there at some point too. Trying to think of a question but failing... hmm have you travelled within Australia much yourself?

Off shore detention centres. Not heard of that before.