Australian PeopleAustralia is a relatively new nation. Australians of European ancestry have developed a culture and attitudes that are distinct from those of their forebears. They are characterised as outgoing people, remarkably open in conversation, and amiable and easygoing. They are proud of the country they have created through hard work, and can be scathing about attitudes or behaviour they consider to be lacking in toughness. They believe in rewards for people according to their abilities, and in putting disappointments to one side and getting on with the future. They put great value on friendship, and help friends whenever possible. As a result of their colonial past, they have a love-hate relationship with the English, whom they call poms'. Australians also have a passion for sport and leisure. About 22 per cent of the population is under age 15 (and about one-third is under age 20), while the proportion of those over age 65 (12 per cent) is low for the developed world. About 90 per cent of the people are European and approximately 60 per cent of the white population have British or Irish roots. Other Australians are from a variety of nationalities including Italian, Croatian, Chinese, Indian, South American, and Greek (Melbourne has the largest Greek population outside Greece). About one-fifth of the population was not born in Australia and Aboriginal people make up 1.5 per cent of the population.
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