Social customs
Australia's customs and behaviours are one of the major differences between living here and overseas. This does not mean that your own customs cannot be maintained within the Australian community and most Australians are very understanding and accepting of these customs. Your ability to maintain a friendly manner and your sense of humour will help to overcome most difficulties or misunderstandings that may arise.
Physical contact
Australian men generally do not display strong affection for male friends and it is not common to see displays of affection between men in public (e.g. hugging, kissing, linking arms), even if they are close friends. There are however some exceptions, including while playing sport or at family gatherings. Women more openly show affection and this usually takes the form of hugging or greeting another woman with a kiss on the cheek. Affection between the sexes is common in Australia and it is quite normal to see men and women holding hands or kissing in public. In family situations women will often greet family and friends (male and female) with a kiss on the cheek and men will often greet each other with a handshake. This is also the same for saying good bye.
Invitations
In Australia, it is considered rude not to keep an appointment once you have accepted an invitation. If you do not or cannot accept an invitation, the custom is to say no immediately. You can also express doubt as to your availability and contact the host later, once you have checked if you are free. The most common invitations are to dinner or a party at someone's house, in which case it is polite but not compulsory to bring a small contribution (e.g. a bottle of wine, box of chocolates, cake etc). You may also be invited to go out to a restaurant for dinner or drinks at a pub or cafe. Punctuality is very important in Australia, whether you have an appointment, or have been invited out socially. If you are running late or need to cancel, it is polite to contact the person you have made arrangements with and let them know. The one exception is parties (except dinner parties) as they rarely start on time. If you don't want to be the first one there, plan to arrive about 30 minutes late. You may be asked to bring a plate of food (perhaps from your home country) to be shared among the group. BYO means Bring Your Own (alcoholic) drinks. Many restaurants are also BYO, which means you can bring your own wine to drink with your meal.
Tipping
It is not general practice or compulsory to tip when you are at a cafe or restaurant, unless you think the service or food was of a high standard and you would like to acknowledge the staff with a tip. Serving staff are paid a minimum wage in Australia and do not need to rely on tips.
Smoking
In Perth, smoking is not permitted in restaurants or public buildings (e.g. shopping centres). Many Australians do not smoke and ask visitors to not smoke in their home but rather outside.