I think you will find that depends on the level, and nature, of the abuse.

If you find a post or username offensive then report it. Otherwise just drop it. The reason for the change in your username has been explained to you repeatedly and it's getting a little tiresome now.

No need to stick your oar in. I was only having a joke. This is the Barbie section isn't it?

I put a wink in the post. I thought that was the universal way of letting BE posters know it was meant in jest.

The problems occur when someone expresses, quite reasonably, sentiments that are less than favourable about Australia. They have not necessarily been outrageous in their views or their expression of them. But, nonetheless, and as sure as eggs are eggs, a whole crowd (not just one or two people, but a virtual cyber mob) will start to attack them for being critical of Australia and offering up such helpful remarks as ''why don't you clear off then?'' or ''can I give you a lift to the airport?''

Did you walk out of the UK the INSTANT you decided you wanted to move? Or did you have to wait until it was POSSIBLE for you to leave? I expect it was the latter. So why can't you understand the fact that people can't necessarily just leave Australia because it isn't for them?

If you are so secure in your love of Australia it should be water off a ducks back to hear it criticised. It should not upset you to the point that it clearly does with some people. Their discomfort with criticism of Australia is evident from how swiftly they attempt to strike back with sarcasm and huffy, glib remarks. This clear discomfort sometimes almost suggests that they are not as 100% content and certain as they claim to be.

I don't recall the Brits getting upset when someone didn't like Britain. Why do some people have to get so distraught when someone doesn't think that Australia is the world's greatest country?

Is that the collective noun for a group of Cybermen?

I never said I was upset, just curious. Plenty Brits on this site get upset when you knock the UK and in many cases, rightly so. Plenty people also come on and slag of the UK or Aus and then get upset when someone disagrees.... that's the internet for you.

I've noticed though that the ''Australia is paradise'' brigade will often make blanket statements about the UK, such as comments on education or crime, then when someone makes an equivalent remark about Australia the ''Australia is paradise'' brigade sparks up and starts protesting about the use of blanket statements.

Blanket statements are fine if they are being used to criticise the UK. They are not fine when being used to criticise Australia.

My gawd! You still going on about this. Let it go man!!!!

Okay.

Will do.

Provided all those who love Australia promise never to mention their happiness again.

Agreed?

There is no crime in Australia though. Only sunshine, beaches and paradise. Did you not read the brochure?

It cuts both ways, I'm afraid. Fair is fair.

Drink, ****, women!

P.s. the stars say f e c k

I'm going to say blanket statements are just that, where ever they are about. The same thing happens in here as happens in mbttuk but the countries are switched. So whatever motivation one has to defend a country is clearly the same. Try making a blanket statement rubbishing the UK and you will face similar postings to slagging off Aus in the Barbie.

No, I know.

I keep forgetting. Bad memory. British beef probably.

That's right. Australia is all a man could want in life and more. It is life as it is supposed to be lived. It is a crime free zone where all the people always smile at you like you are an old friend.

Ahh that's how you get through the swear filter!! Interesting. Learn something new every day