Migrating to Australia has profoundly influenced my identity and sense of belonging. Navigating new cultural landscapes and professional environments has been a transformative journey, blending excitement with adaptation challenges. Balancing my Indian heritage with integrating into Australian society has been a journey of self-discovery, shaping my evolving identity.

I arrived in Australia in 2008 as an international student from India. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving with Victoria Police for over a decade. Starting as a police officer, I worked tirelessly to ensure public safety, respond to emergencies, and build community trust. Transitioning to a police prosecutor was a significant milestone, reflecting my dedication to growth and my passion for law.

While I have embraced life in Australia, I deeply miss the vibrant festivals and celebrations of India. Diwali and Holi, with their colours, lights, and joyous music, are a sensory feast that I cherish. The diverse and flavourful cuisine of India, rich with spices and regional specialties, is a constant longing. The rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and traditional arts add a unique beauty to daily life that I yearn for. Above all, I miss the warmth and closeness of family and friends, whose presence and shared experiences provided irreplaceable comfort and a sense of belonging.

To stay connected with my home country and culture, I prioritize staying in touch with family and friends through video calls and social media. Celebrating Indian festivals and traditions, hosting gatherings, and participating in local cultural events with fellow migrants keeps these customs alive. Cooking traditional Indian meals and sharing them with friends allows me to preserve my culinary heritage. Immersing myself in Indian movies, music, and literature helps me stay connected to my cultural roots. Keeping up with news and developments in India also allows me to remain engaged with my homeland.

When I first moved to Australia, I learned about “taking a sickie”, but I didn’t quite grasp the cultural nuance. Feeling adventurous one day, I joined my Aussie colleagues for a beach outing. The next day at work, I told my boss I needed a “sickie” to recover from my sunburn. My boss gave me a puzzled look before bursting into laughter, explaining that a “sickie” usually means taking a day off when you’re not sick. It was a funny and enlightening moment about Australian work culture and slang, and fortunately, my boss took it in good humour.

Family violence in Australia is a critical issue that affects many, including immigrant families. Understanding local laws and accessing support services is crucial to protecting families and children from harm. Children exposed to family violence are at risk of emotional trauma and developmental issues. Addressing these issues through increased awareness and support services is essential to safeguarding families and promoting children’s well-being.

My advice to fellow migrants is to develop cultural awareness. Understanding and respecting Australian cultural norms, values, and customs is vital. Being sensitive to differences in communication styles, social behaviours, and attitudes toward family and diversity helps navigate social interactions and build meaningful relationships. Embracing cultural awareness fosters mutual respect and appreciation for both Australian culture and one’s heritage, promoting a harmonious and inclusive community. By doing so, migrants can enrich their experience in Australia and contribute positively to multicultural diversity.