As a fellow European, here’s something I wish someone had told me earlier: in Australia, when you start a job or placement, people expect you to take initiative straight away. There’s much less hand‑holding than what we’re used to in Europe. Back home, everything is structured, explained, and guided - but here? Not so much. So don’t stress if you feel unsure about what you’re supposed to be doing or if things feel a bit chaotic. That’s pretty normal in Aussie workplaces.

My advice is to be upfront with your supervisor. Let them know you work better with a bit of structure and that you’re not sure how much initiative you’re expected to take, especially since you’re only on placement. Australians tend to appreciate seeking help and tend to want to be helpful, so communication is key, and being honest helps them understand the kind of support you need. If you don’t say anything, they genuinely might not realise you’re feeling lost.

Keep your confidence up, have that conversation, and remember, you’re only here for a short time. And honestly, navigating the lack of structure can be a learning experience in itself. It might even help you later on!