I never wear shoes inside...never have. I like being barefoot. And yes, I lived in Melbourne for 7 years...I just wore socks in winter then!

However I wouldn't ask someone to take their shoes off when they come into my house in case for some reason they would be embarrassed (holes in socks, smelly feet, cracked heels). And I would feel rude asking them to do so.

I also feel strange taking my shoes off in someone's house and would prefer not to.