The Food in Australia – What to Expect When You Move There

by | Thursday 31st October 2024

There’s no denying the excitement of a move to Australia, but did you know that the country is known for having a vibrant food scene?

From fresh seafood to multicultural dishes and world class wine, Australian cuisine offers a diverse range of flavours that reflect its rich heritage and love for fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Whether you’re a fan of beach barbecues, gourmet dining or exploring unique regional produce, there’s something for everyone in Australia. In this blog, we take a look at what you can expect to taste when you start your new life Down Under.

An Introduction to Australian Cuisine

There are certainly some similarities between the UK and Australia, but there are some key differences in the food that you can expect when you move. Australian cuisine is a rich and diverse blend of cultural influences, shaped by its history, geography and immigrant population. Traditional Aboriginal ingredients form the foundation of the country’s cuisine, with influences from around the world. British, European and Asian flavours have made their mark, creating a unique fusion of tastes and dishes. The focus of Australian cuisine is on outdoor dining, barbecues and fresh produce.

Fresh and Seasonal Produce

Australia boasts some of the best fresh produce in the world. Thanks to its vast farmlands and temperate climate, local fruits, vegetables, and meats are well known for being of high quality, fresh, and delicious. When you move to Australia, you can expect tasty, seasonal produce throughout the year, and there’s a big emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. Regardless of where you are in the country, you won’t struggle to find people selling local products. As a nation, Australians take pride in sourcing fresh, organic and high quality food. It doesn’t matter where in Australia you move to; you won’t struggle to find fresh and seasonal produce.

‘Must Try’ Aussie Food and Snacks

Australia has a wide variety of flavours, dishes and ingredients to choose from, but a few dishes stand out as being somewhat iconic.

  • Vegemite – Vegemite is an iconic spread that’s well known as a staple in cupboards around the country. Made from yeast extract, it’s similar to Marmite and often enjoyed on toast or crackers. It’s salty, savoury and uniquely Australian, but it’s definitely an acquired taste.
  • Meat Pies – Australians are famous for their love of meat pies, a savoury snack filled with minced meat, gravy and sometimes onions or mushrooms, encased in flaky pastry. Though you’re sure to be familiar with pies in the UK, Australia takes things to a new level.

Australian meat pies

  • Barbecue – Australia takes its barbecuing – or, if you’re an Australian, a barbie – very seriously. You’ll often find locals grilling sausages, steaks, lamb chops, seafood and more. Barbecues are a favourite social activity, especially in the summer months.
  • Lamingtons – If you’re a fan of a sweet treat, you should try a lamington. These delicious square cakes, coated in chocolate and coconut, are a beloved treat often served at afternoon tea.
  • Tim Tams – A popular chocolate biscuit, Tim Tams are a favourite indulgence for Australians. Similar to a Penguin in the UK, Tim Tams are available in a whole host of flavours.

Australian Lamington Cake

Indigenous Ingredients

Australia is also home to a number of Indigenous ingredients, many of which are becoming more prominent in modern cuisine, including native plants and animals that have been part of Aboriginal diets for thousands of years. Ingredients like wattleseed, finger limes, macadamia nuts and kangaroo meat are gaining popularity in Australian restaurants. This is because they offer a unique culinary experience that celebrates Indigenous heritage.

Coffee Culture

If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll enjoy the thriving coffee scene in Australia. The country is known for its high quality coffee, and many Australians are passionate coffee lovers. Cafés are a central part of urban life in the country and you’ll often find locals enjoying flat whites, lattes or espressos at their favourite spots. The café culture is laid back but sophisticated, making it easy to relax and unwind. This is especially true in Melbourne, a city known for having some of the best coffee in the country.

coffee in Melbourne cafe

Wine and Craft Beer

Australia has a number of wine regions – such as the Barossa Valley and Margaret River – and the country is world renowned for producing high quality wines. When you move, you’ll find a vast selection of Australian wines available, ranging from Shiraz and Chardonnay to Sauvignon Blanc. Along with wine, Australia has a growing craft beer scene, with many microbreweries offering unique and flavourful beverages, especially in Melbourne.

Supermarkets and Grocery Shopping

Supermarkets and grocery shopping in Australia offer a wide range of fresh, high quality produce and products. Major supermarket chains like Coles, Woolworths and ALDI dominate the landscape, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, to cupboard staples and household goods. In addition to supermarkets, many Australians enjoy shopping at local farmers’ markets, where you can find fresh, seasonal produce. Specialty stores and smaller grocers are easy to find in Australia, such as those focusing on organic, gluten free, and international items.

Eating Out in Australia

Eating out in Australia offers a lot of variety, from casual cafes and pubs, to fine dining experiences. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are known for their diverse restaurant scenes. You’ll find everything from food trucks to five star establishments, ensuring there’s always something for you to enjoy. Service is usually friendly and relaxed in Australia, reflecting the country’s laid back and easygoing nature.

Australian cafe

Where to Find Your Favourite British Foods in Australia

Finding your favourite foods in Australia is easier than you might think, thanks to a range of speciality stores and international sections in major supermarkets. Popular chains like Coles and Woolworths often stock British staples such as Heinz baked beans, PG Tips, Marmite and classic biscuits. This is because Australia has a large expat population. For a wider selection, there are speciality shops aimed specifically at expats, offering everything from Cadbury’s chocolate to Walkers crisps and British condiments.

Enjoy Australian Food as an Expat

food in Australia barbecue

Moving to Australia offers an exciting opportunity to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce and unique ingredients. From tropical fruits to freshly caught seafood, Australia’s food scene is perfect for those who love cooking with quality ingredients. The rich agricultural landscape ensures that fresh, local produce is easy to find. However, before you can fully immerse yourself in Australian cuisine, you need to plan your move.

Planning a big move requires careful consideration and preparation, and United International Removals is here to help. Hiring an international removal company is an essential part of ensuring a smooth relocation, allowing you to focus on settling in and embracing all the culinary delights Australia has to offer. Get in touch to find out more.

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