Living Like It's 1967 in Australia: A Detailed Guide for Men

Stepping back into 1967 Australia means embracing a unique lifestyle marked by distinctive cultural, social, and technological elements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you live as a man would have during that year, covering all aspects from clothing to media consumption, and everyday habits.

1. Lifestyle & Social Habits

The 1960s in Australia was a time of increasing social change but still held many values influenced by post-war conservatism. Men typically worked traditional 9-to-5 jobs in industries such as manufacturing, government, or trades. Weekends were for socializing, sports, and family time.

• Sports & Recreation: Engage in cricket, rugby, football, or golf. Many men spent time at local clubs or pubs.
• Transportation: Drive classic vehicles like the Holden EH or Ford Falcon, emblematic Australian cars of the time.
• Social Life: Meeting up at local pubs, attending dances, or going to the beach on weekends was common.

2. Clothing Styles

Men’s fashion in 1967 Australia combined conservative elements with emerging modern styles influenced by international trends.

• Day Wear: Tailored suits with narrow lapels, often in navy, grey, or brown. Shirts were button-down, usually with slim ties.
• Casual: Polka-dotted or floral short-sleeve shirts, tidy chinos or trousers, and slip-on loafers or brogues were popular.
• Outerwear: Lightweight trench coats or knitted cardigans during cooler months.
• Hair: Clean-cut styles like short back and sides, occasionally longer styles inspired by The Beatles.

3. Music and How It Was Consumed

1967 was the height of the rock and pop revolution. Australian men listened to a mix of local artists and international stars like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Easybeats.

• Formats:
  • Vinyl Records (LPs and singles) were the main format.
  • AM Radio played popular music; the top 40 format was dominant.
  • Jukeboxes in pubs and clubs featured popular tracks.
• Popular Venues: Live music events, local dance halls, and surf clubs.

4. Television

Television was relatively new and rapidly growing in popularity after being introduced in Australia in 1956.

• Sets: Black and white TVs common; colour TV was not introduced until the 1970s.
• Popular Shows: News, variety shows, westerns, and Australian drama series like "Homicide".
• Viewing Habits: Families gathered in the evenings to watch, usually a few hours after work.

5. Food

Diets were simple and hearty, focused on meat and vegetables with influences from British cuisine.

• Common Foods: Meat pies, lamb roasts, vegemite on toast, fish and chips, and salads with mayonnaise.
• Groceries: Local markets and small grocers were common shopping places.
• Beverages: Tea and instant coffee were household staples; beer brands like Tooheys and XXXX were popular.

6. Radio

Radio remained a dominant source of entertainment and news.

• AM Broadcasts: ABC Radio, as well as commercial stations like 2UE in Sydney.
• Content: Music programs, news, talkback shows, and serial dramas.
• Listening Habits: Background during work or household chores, and in cars.

7. Books

Popular literature was a mix of Australian authors and international bestsellers.

• Genres: Crime novels, westerns, classic literature, and emerging Australian writers like Patrick White.
• Formats: Hardback and paperback books, serial magazines.

8. Pets

Dogs and cats were common household pets, often simple breeds reflective of working-class families.

• Popular Pets: Australian terriers, kelpies, or moggy cats.
• Care: Simple feeding routines, outdoor kennels or cat doors common.

9. Newspapers

Newspapers were an important source for daily news and classifieds.

• Popular Titles: The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and local community papers.
• Reading Habits: Morning or evening reading over coffee or at the breakfast table.

10. Cigarette Brands

Smoking was very prevalent among men in 1967, often seen as a social norm.

• Popular Australian Brands: Benson & Hedges, Winfield, and Holiday.
• Consumption: Cigarettes were smoked everywhere — at work, pubs, and social gatherings.

Summary

To authentically live like a man in 1967 Australia, incorporate the following key points: dress in smart tailored suits or casual shirts, consume music via vinyl on record players and AM radio, watch black and white TV with classic shows, enjoy hearty traditional food, stay updated with newspapers, and embrace the social smoking culture. This immersive approach will give you a true sense of the era's distinct lifestyle.