What Defines Australian Qualities and Values: A Zurich-Orsted’s Perspective

From a unique vantage point as both an Australian and a New Zealander by birth, I’ve come to understand the essence of what it means to be Australian. It's an intriguing mix of cheerfulness, irreverence, and a certain kind of cheerful fatalism that just adds to the charm.

The Joy in Adversity and Irreverence

One of the defining traits of Australians is our ability to laugh at adversity. We don’t shy away from tragedy, but we don't let it define us either. This sense of irreverence is a cornerstone of our culture. We tackle and mock almost everything in life without judgment. To us, nothing is sacred. We encapsulate this perfectly in the way we enjoy our national pastimes like the Australia Day BBQ or the enthusiasm during the Ashes series.

A Place to Call Home

We are a nation of immigrants, with a history that has seen people from all corners of the globe come together under one flag. Yet, despite our diverse backgrounds, there is a bond that unites us - a communion that comes from being born and reared in this great land. I draw strength and belonging from the diverse backgrounds of those around me, from my accent to the unique perspectives brought through my family’s various origins.

Modern Perspective on Australian Identity

The term "Aussie" can mean a myriad of things. One could be born and raised in Australia, like my second son, who wears the British Received Pronunciation, yet still calls this land home. Others, like my first son, might have been born elsewhere, like New Zealand, but call Australia their adopted homeland. Then there's my wife, who moved to Australia from New Zealand during her early childhood, and now harbors an Australian passport. And me, a New Zealander who has the unique opportunity to call Australia home despite lacking citizenship, thanks to an immigration policy quirk.

Community and Belonging

Central to this identity is a sense of belonging. Regardless of the myriad of backgrounds and origins, we come together as a community. This is beautifully illustrated in the shared moments, like enjoying a backyard barbecue, watching a cricket match, or celebrating festivals. The emphasis on community and family plays a crucial role in our identity. It's a constant reminder that we are stronger together.

A National Character

The phrase "no bastard is better than any other bastard" may resonate in some quarters but isn't inherently reflective of the broader national character. We might laugh about it, but we also embrace the idea of equality and inclusivity. Our sense of egalitarianism goes beyond just rude humor. It's a deep-seated belief that everyone deserves an equal chance in life.

Australian identity, at its core, is a blend of humor, resilience, and a profound sense of community. It’s captured in moments like watching a viral video that goes viral, in the faces of everyday Australians laughing in unison.

Conclusion: No matter where you come from, if you live in this country, you are an Australian. Our identity is as rich and varied as our landscapes, with each parcel of our nation telling its own story.

Keywords: Australian qualities, Australian values, Australian identity