Despite being geographically distant, Canada and Australia share a cultural kinship rooted in the British Commonwealth. This connection has promoted a sense of camaraderie and understanding between these two diverse yet interconnected societies.
Canadians and Australians share many things, from shared values of multiculturalism and parliamentary governance to similar recreational activities such as gambling. This article will discuss the cultural similarities that bridge the gap between these two nations.
What Do Australians and Canadians Have in Common?
Australians and Canadians find commonalities in historical, political, and cultural heritage as explained below:
1. History, Politics, and Government
Australia and Canada are former British colonies and are members of the Commonwealth. They inherited a similar legal system, parliamentary governance, and a common language, English. Today, Australia and Canada are constitutional monarchies with federal states.
How did this happen?
On July 1, 1867, three British colonies joined together to form the Dominion of Canada. This dominion had four provinces: Nova Scotia, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Quebec. Between 1867 and 1999, the federation welcomed six more provinces and three territories.
On 1 January 1901, six British colonies joined together to form the Federation of Australia. The six colonies that formed the Commonwealth of Australia are New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland.
These shared foundations have played a crucial role in shaping the political and governance fabrics of both nations. Today, Canada and Australia are constitutional monarchies with a parliamentary system of government. In both countries, the Governor General represents the monarch, while the states, provinces, and territories have their own governments.
2. Outdoor Pursuits and Recreational Activities
Canadians and Australians share a deep appreciation for outdoor activities, the natural environment, and recreation. Both countries boast vast landscapes and offer opportunities for outdoor pursuits like hiking, camping, skiing, and water sports.
Australians can explore the vibrant streets of Sydney, venture into the eclectic laneways of Melbourne, marvel at the iconic Sydney Opera House, or unwind on the picturesque beaches of Bondi. Canadians can visit Niagara Falls, one of the world's most famous natural wonders, CN Tower, Parliament Hill, Stanley Park, or Banff National Park & the Rocky Mountains.
Beyond the outdoor pursuits, both nations exhibit similar gambling habits, with a penchant for gaming and wagering seen as part of their recreational activities. Pokie machines and online slots are the most popular online casino games in Australia. Canadians favor poker, blackjack, slots, baccarat, craps, roulette, and live dealer casino games.
Whether it's playing the lottery, visiting casinos, or betting on sports events, gambling is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of both societies. This shared interest in gambling further strengthens the cultural kinship between Canadians and Australians.
3. Sports Culture
Both Canadians and Australians have a marked interest in athletic activities. In Canada, hockey reigns supreme, making it the national winter sport. Australia is well known for its love of Australian rules football, cricket and rugby.
Baseball is another growing common ground between Australia and Canada. Baseball is played in all states and territories of Australia under different associations and leagues. Baseball is widely played in Canada, with the Toronto Blue Jays participating in Major League Baseball. To see how much Baseball is loved in Canada, listen to Toronto Mike's podcast: Field of Dreams at Christie Pits.
Soccer is also rising in popularity in both countries as they are making a mark on the international stage. Canada and Australia have modern stadiums and consistently participate in the FIFA World Cup and other regional tournaments. Locally, Australia's A-League and Canadian Football League are growing their fanbase.
4. Multiculturalism and Diversity
Multiculturalism and Diversity are very much alive in Canada and Australia, and they serve a common interest: Allowing all citizens to have a sense of belonging by keeping their identities and taking pride in their ancestry.
Australia introduced an official multiculturalism policy in 1978 to act as an inquiry into how the country could improve services for immigrants. Canada introduced the same policy in 1971 to promote full and equal involvement and participation of all ethnic groups in mainstream activities in the country.
Today, social equality, regardless of ethnic or religious background, race, color, or ancestry reigns supreme in Canada and Australia. This has enhanced a sense of camaraderie and understanding in these countries, creating a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants. Whether local or foreign, you'll have an opportunity to enjoy your culture in Canada and Australia.
What Does Multiculturalism Look Like in Australia and Canada?
Despite the geographical distance, Canada and Australia share a sense of cultural kinship. Rooted in their historical ties within the British Commonwealth, they share common values of multiculturalism, parliamentary governance, language, and a pursuit for the outdoors.
Additionally, gambling is deeply rooted in the cultures of Canadians and Australians—they have a penchant for gaming and wagering as part of their recreational activities. These cultural connections serve as bridges that bring Canadians and Australians closer together, fostering a relationship built on shared experiences, values, and interests.
