Dec 20 2025
12 Pubs of Christmas Surfers Paradise Edition
Cavill Avenue
Australia and Germany may sit on opposite sides of the globe, but they’ve found surprising ways to connect—especially through culture. From beer festivals and sausages to punctuality and engineering, Aussies have long been fascinated by elements of German life. But what exactly do Australians love most about German culture? We asked around, listened to stories, and pulled together some of the most endearing and funny insights.
The first thing most Aussies will mention when German culture comes up? Oktoberfest. And who could blame them? Between the one-litre beer steins, traditional Bavarian dress, and chicken dances, there’s a lot to enjoy.
“I went to Oktoberfest in Munich back in 2019,” says Mitch from Brisbane. “It was honestly the best party I’ve ever been to. Everyone was singing, drinking, and just having the time of their lives. I even bought Lederhosen, and I’ve worn it again at three Aussie Oktoberfest parties!”
It’s not just about drinking, Oktoberfest has become a celebration of fun, friendship, and togetherness that resonates with Australia’s laid-back, social culture.
German food has a strong fanbase in Australia. Whether it’s a juicy bratwurst at a festival or a hearty schnitzel at a German club, Aussies love the flavour, the comfort, and the novelty of traditional German fare.
“Every time I visit the German Club in Brisbane, I go straight for the pork knuckle,” says Karen from the Gold Coast. “It’s crunchy, salty, and absolutely perfect with a cold beer.”
Pretzels have also found their way into mainstream Aussie food culture—soft, salted, and best enjoyed warm with mustard or cheese dip.
German beer is celebrated across the world, and Australians are no exception. With a beer-loving culture of their own, Aussies have huge respect for the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law) and the flavourful, well-balanced brews it produces.
“Radeberger is my favourite,” shares Tom, a homebrewer from Melbourne. “It’s smooth, no gimmicks, and tastes like how beer should taste. The Germans just get it right.”
Many Australians now seek out German imports like Erdinger, Paulaner, and Weihenstephaner, or attend events where these beers are served fresh in traditional glass steins.
Australians love the idea of German efficiency, particularly when it comes to organisation, planning, and punctuality. While Aussies are known for their more relaxed, casual lifestyle, many admire how Germans seem to “have it together.”
“One of my best mates is German, and he always shows up on time, like, to the minute,” laughs Emily from Sydney. “He even writes packing lists for a beach day. It’s hilarious but also kind of inspiring.”
This admiration also extends to Germany’s trains (maybe not the train anymore), infrastructure, and automotive engineering, with Aussies often commenting on the precision and quality associated with “Made in Germany” products.
From BMWs to Mercedes-Benz and Audi, Australians are keenly aware of Germany’s prowess in car manufacturing. The country’s reputation for precision, safety, and quality resonates with Aussie buyers, especially those who love performance vehicles.
“I’m on my second Volkswagen Golf,” says Nathan, a tech consultant in Perth. “It’s reliable, fun to drive, and just feels solid. I’ve always trusted German brands.”
It’s not just about cars, German engineering extends to tools, appliances, and household products, many of which enjoy a solid fan base in Australia.
Even in Australia’s summer Christmas, there’s something magical about German Christmas traditions that Aussies love to adopt. From glühwein (mulled wine) to handcrafted wooden ornaments and advent calendars, the charm of a German Christmas is hard to resist.
“My family always goes to the local German Christmas market,” says Sophie from Adelaide. “Even though it’s 35 degrees outside, we still drink glühwein and eat stollen. It’s become our thing.”
Pop-up markets and events bring this wintery charm down under, making it a growing seasonal trend in Aussie cities.
Germans are known for being direct, honest, and thoughtful, traits that many Australians come to admire, even if they’re a little taken aback at first.
“My German flatmate doesn’t sugarcoat anything,” laughs Ben from Newcastle. “At first I thought he was being rude, but now I get that he’s just being real. I actually like it.”
Australians appreciate authenticity, and German culture’s straight-talking nature appeals to that. Once the differences are understood, strong friendships often form.
While German music may not be mainstream in Australia, electronic music fans and classical lovers alike appreciate Germany’s cultural contributions.
From techno clubs in Berlin to Oktoberfest tunes and classical greats like Bach and Beethoven, there’s something for every taste.
“I went to a rave in Berlin and it changed my life,” shares a traveller named Zoe. “It was so inclusive, so raw. And the music was next level.”
While Oktoberfest and schnitzels might be the entry point, Australians’ love for German culture often grows into a deeper appreciation. From efficient systems and timeless beer traditions to cultural values and festive fun, there’s a lot for Aussies to admire—and adopt.
And with growing numbers of German expats living in Australia, plus popular events like Steins & Sunsets, there are more chances than ever for cultures to mix, mingle, and raise a stein together.
Prost!
