4. Explain the meaning of the term ‘cultural awareness’. Why is it important?

Cultural Awareness is developing sensitivity and understanding of another ethnic group. Awareness extends to special foods, manners of dress, language, religious preferences and observances, and differences in communication styles. (For example, in some cultures it is impolite to make eye contact, especially with someone you do not know well.) To enhance the quality of the visit, it is helpful to be aware of cultural differences and be sensitive to those differences.

Cultural awareness recognises that we are all shaped by our cultural background, which influences how we interpret the world around us, perceive ourselves and relate to other people. You don’t need to be an expert in every culture or have all the answers to be culturally aware; rather, cultural awareness helps you to explore cultural issues with your recipients more sensitively.

Information about specific cultural practices will help to increase your cultural knowledge by providing an overview of cultural characteristics and issues. However, it is always important to identify individual needs and preferences and remember that no individual can be reduced to a set of cultural norms.

Within any culture, peoples’ values, behaviour and beliefs can vary enormously. Differences may occur due to time of arrival in Australia, length of settlement, socio-economic background, level of education,

way of life, identification with cultural and religious background, and different life experiences.

Key Considerations

· Be aware of your own cultural influences.

· Be aware of judging other people's behaviour and beliefs according to the standards of your own

culture.

· Be aware of making assumptions about cultural influences and applying generalisations to

individuals.

· Understand that the behaviour and beliefs of people within each culture can vary considerably.

· Understand that the extent to which people adopt practices of their new country and retain those

from their cultural background can vary within communities, even within families.

· Understand that not all people identify with their cultural or religious background.

· Increase your knowledge about different cultural practices and issues through cultural background information sessions and/or resources and cultural awareness training.

· Understand the importance of appropriate communication.