Police ride horses, shops close at 5 pm: Indian woman living in Australia shares 5 things that are normal in the country

Moving abroad has become a sought-after career move for several young professionals. Many of us leave the comfort of our homes and the familiarity of our surroundings to settle in foreign countries like the USA, UK, and Australia for a better paycheck and growth opportunities. In doing so, they also have to adjust to the local customs and culture. Earlier this month, an Indian woman, Disha Shah, who lives in Australia, posted a video on Instagram, sharing 5 things that are completely normal in the country but can be shocking in India.

Shops close at 5 pm

Transitioning from India, where retail stores routinely operate late into the evening, requires a noticeable lifestyle shift for newcomers. Disha highlights that commercial establishments across Australian cities wrap up their business day around 5 PM. Attempting to run errands or purchase essentials during the early evening hours on a weekend often proves unsuccessful due to early closures. While this early shutdown might surprise individuals accustomed to late-night shopping culture, local residents consider this routine completely standard practice.

Police roam the city on horses

Navigating the central business districts of Australian cities occasionally brings unexpected encounters with law enforcement. Disha reveals that police officers actively patrol busy urban streets riding on horses as a standard method of maintaining public order. For individuals arriving from countries where such sights are rare in everyday urban settings, witnessing officers riding through commercial hubs on horseback remains a puzzling experience. Despite its surprising nature to newcomers, mounted patrolling forms a regular and recognized component of Australia’s municipal policing structure.

First-name culture

Professional and social interactions in Australia rely on a distinctively casual address system that contrasts sharply with traditional Indian customs. Disha points out that formal honorifics like "Sir" or "Madam," as well as familial terms, are largely absent from daily, formal conversations. Instead, people address their workplace seniors, educators, medical professionals, and acquaintances directly by their given names. This widespread practice reflects a flattened social hierarchy where egalitarian communication is the norm across workplaces, educational institutions, and healthcare settings.

People leave work on time

Corporate culture in Australia places a paramount emphasis on maintaining a clear division between professional duties and personal life. Disha notes that working beyond fixed office hours is neither encouraged nor viewed as a sign of dedication. Employees actively prioritize their evening hours, family commitments, and weekend rest without feeling pressure to overwork. The broader work environment actively respects these boundaries, creating a professional atmosphere where personal well-being and time off are genuinely valued alongside professional responsibilities.

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A post shared by Disha Shah (@dr.dshah)

Public parks are next level

Municipal infrastructure and outdoor spaces across Australia provide exceptional amenities for public enjoyment. Disha emphasizes that local parks feature remarkably well-maintained walking paths, children's playgrounds, clean restroom facilities, and dedicated picnic areas. Furthermore, these open spaces offer free public barbecue setups that community members can utilize at their convenience. The high standard of upkeep, paired with universal free access, makes recreational park visits a staple component of daily life and leisure for residents living in the country.