There's a very Australian concept of "being a larrikin". The US equivalent might be "brat", "having an attitude", etc. It's a mental stance of giving the middle finger to authority. It seems the Australian government has found a way to neutralize the spirit of larrikinism in its people. Maybe it has something to do with the friendly voice the government has adopted. As an example, while on vacation in Oz, at a train station in Zillmere I saw a sign that read something like the following:

    Cross the tracks only at the footbridges in an orderly fashion! Or cop a $100 fine. Don't say we didn't warn you, mate!

The equivalent sign in the USA might read:

    DANGER -- KEEP OFF TRACKS -- VIOLATORS WILL BE FINED $100

It's easier to sneak authoritarianism in the back door when the authoritarians seem like your mates, who would never use their power against you, only to keep you and your community safe.