The Lucky Country?
The Lucky Country?During 2018, I wrote the blog ‘The Lucky Country – why do so many Australians complain?’. It is an excellent time to repeat a few reasons, add more and answer the question, ‘Is Australia still the lucky country?‘
Why ask? I hear too many Australians complaining about life, but I get many letters from children I sponsor in developing countries who are very happy.
The Lucky Country is a 1964 book by Donald Horne. The title has become a nickname for Australia and is generally used favourably, although the origin of the phrase was negative in the context of the book. Among other things, it has been used in reference to Australia’s natural resources, weather, history, its early dependency of the British system, distance from problems elsewhere in the world, and other sorts of supposed prosperity. Click here to continue reading on Wikipedia.
Ten reasons to help you decide whether Australia is still the lucky country.
- Stable Economy: Australia has one of the strongest economies in the world.
- High-Quality Healthcare: Access to free or subsidised quality healthcare via Medicare.
- Education: World-class educational institutions and high literacy rates.
- Employment Opportunities: Diverse industries with relatively low unemployment rates.
- Minimum Wage: Australia has one of the highest minimum wages globally.
- Natural Beauty: From the Great Barrier Reef to vast deserts and rainforests.
- Clean Environment: Strict environmental regulations ensure cleaner air and water.
- Safety: Low crime rates compared to many countries.
- Cultural Diversity: Multicultural society with people from various ethnic backgrounds.
- Public Transport: Efficient and widespread public transport systems.
Another ten reasons to help you decide whether Australia is still the lucky country.
- Technological Advancement: Quick adoption of new technologies.
- Infrastructure: Well-maintained roads, bridges, and public facilities.
- Social Services: Comprehensive social welfare programs via Centrelink.
- Political Stability: Stable democratic government.
- Human Rights: Respect for human rights and freedom of speech.
- Weather: A variety of climates, from tropical to temperate.
- Lifestyle: High standard of living and quality of life.
- Recreational Activities: A range of recreational and outdoor activities.
- Arts and Culture: Vibrant arts scenes, from theatres to music festivals.
- Low Population Density: Spacious cities and towns.
Another ten reasons to help you decide whether Australia is still the lucky country.
- Legal System: A robust legal system that ensures justice.
- Public Health Initiatives: Proactive public health campaigns.
- Low Corruption Levels: Australia ranks low on corruption indices.
- Gender Equality: Strong emphasis on gender rights and equality.
- LGBTQ+ Rights: Progressive LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.
- Accessible Facilities: Public places are generally disability-friendly.
- Research and Development: Strong emphasis on science and innovation.
- Natural Resources: Rich in minerals and resources.
- Tourism: Thriving tourism industry.
- Sports: A big sports culture, from cricket to rugby.
Another ten reasons to help you decide whether Australia is still the lucky country.
- Property Rights: Well-established property rights.
- Banking System: Robust and regulated banking system.
- Business Opportunities: Fertile ground for start-ups and businesses.
- Civic Participation: High levels of civic and community participation.
- Cultural Festivals: Numerous events celebrating various cultures.
- Renewable Energy Initiatives: Growing emphasis on sustainable energy.
- Public Libraries: Access to numerous well-stocked public libraries.
- Diverse Cuisine: From indigenous foods to multicultural delights.
- Marine Reserves: Large marine conservation areas.
- Animal Conservation: Numerous protected areas and conservation programs.
Final ten reasons to help you decide whether Australia is still the lucky country.
- Public Media: Strong public broadcasters like the ABC.
- Internet Access: High-speed internet and broad coverage.
- Support for the Arts: Grants and programs supporting artists.
- Tolerance and Inclusion: A general ethos of acceptance and inclusion.
- Freedom of Religion: Everyone can practice their religion freely.
- Disability Support: Comprehensive programs supporting disabled individuals via the NDIS.
- National Parks: Numerous parks preserve natural beauty and biodiversity.
- Camping and Caravanning: Popular and well-facilitated pastimes.
- Indigenous Culture: Rich indigenous history and cultural appreciation.
- Beaches: Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Is Australia still the lucky country?
Yes! Stop complaining.
The purpose of this blog isn’t to boast about living in Australia; it is to help Australians understand that most people living in other countries do not have the same standard of living as we do, nor do they have the vast opportunities we do.
Maybe it’s time to help people in developing countries via sponsorship. Click here for a range of organisations you can partner with to help children get opportunities for good health and education so they can help future generations of people in their country.
Find out more about WheelchairJohn.com here.
