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If you are giving a gift to thank someone then that is generally OK, however, if you are giving someone a gift with the intention that you want them to provide you with something then that is not acceptable. 

In some cultures, it is considered appropriate (and is even expected) that students will give gifts to academic or administrative staff members who have helped them. However, in the Australian university context, gift giving is best avoided, because it can be misconstrued as bribery or seeking special treatment. Cash, in particular, should never be given as a gift to a lecturer or tutor. If you do wish to say thank you to someone, the best method is just to send a thank you email, or give a thank you card, or a small token of appreciation.

A professional relationship is not the same as a close friendship. There is a difference between being friendly and being a close friend. For example, in a professional relationship such as a supervisory relationship, you would not be spending one on one time together on the weekend, but you might go out for a quick drink after work.  

As a student at university it is best to avoid having close or romantic relationships with university staff members, particularly those who may be in a position of direct authority over you. However, sometimes relationships do occur and there is a specific university policy on this. 

If you are experiencing discomfort with a professional relationship then it is important to speak to someone about getting support.

To start with, let respect and politeness be your guide. At Australian universities, many lecturers and tutors tend to feel more comfortable being less formal with students. For example, they may encourage students to address them by their first name rather than their title (Professor, Doctor, etc). However, as a sign of respect, begin any communication with your lecturer or tutor by using their title. They will then usually let you know if they prefer you just use their first name.