Doing Business in Australia

Expats hoping to do business in Australia are sure to find that the country’s friendly yet professional corporate atmosphere provides good opportunities for business dealings. In fact, expats often report that Australia is one of the easiest countries in which to do business.

The approach to management in Australia is consultative, pragmatic and egalitarian. Those in positions of power are given respect because of their interpersonal and decision-making skills, not simply because they happen to be ‘the boss’.

In Australia, all employees tend to be seen as equally important to the collective well-being of the group. Everyone is encouraged to share their opinions and ideas regularly, and this egalitarian ethos typically leads to colleagues forming close personal bonds with one another.

Fast facts

Business hours

8.30am or 9.30am to 4.30pm or 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Business language

English

Dress

The dress code is smart, formal and conservative for men and women.

Gifts

Gifts are not usually exchanged during business meetings, but if you’re invited to a colleague’s home, it’s a good idea to take some wine, chocolate or flowers.

Gender equality

Female expats looking to do business in Australia will find that women are generally treated as equals. While female leadership is becoming more commonplace, most high-level jobs are still occupied by men.

Business culture in Australia

The business culture of Australia incorporates British formality and conservatism, the egalitarianism of Scandinavian countries, and the dynamic, innovative approach to business that is largely thought of as American in origin – rounded out with South Pacific warmth and friendliness.

While you’ll need to be smart, punctual and professional at all times, it is equally vital to show that you’re willing to be ‘part of the team’ and to interact with colleagues in an engaged, interested and respectful manner.

Greetings

Business etiquette in Australia further reflects the egalitarian ethos that generally pervades the Australian workplace. Although it’s best to use titles initially, you will almost certainly be told to drop them, at which point first names can be used.

Maintain eye contact when speaking to associates, as this is regarded as a sign of forthrightness and trustworthiness – qualities that Australian business people tend to favour over showiness, self-aggrandisement or empty promises.

Communication

You shouldn’t be surprised to hear colleagues talking bluntly and frankly to one another – remember that, in Australia, direct communication is valued far more than diplomacy. A good rule of thumb for business etiquette in Australia is always to try to ‘get along’ and integrate socially.

Meetings

Business meetings in Australia should be scheduled a week in advance and confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. Be punctual, as lateness can be seen as a symptom of flakiness or indifference. Expect a little good-natured small talk at the beginning of the meeting.

Business meetings in Australia do not generally follow a set agenda. Instead, they are viewed as open forums where ideas are debated and discussed. In fact, over-preparing for a meeting can make a person seem pushy, as though they are trying to force their opinion onto others.

Dos and don’ts of business in Australia

• Do be honest and forthright – try to get to know Australian colleagues on a personal level
• Do get involved in ‘team-building’, since egalitarianism is the backbone of the Australian work ethos
• Do make an effort to get to know colleagues outside of office hours
• Don’t try to prove credentials by talking about them. Rather, show qualities by working hard.
• Don’t be insulted if colleagues address someone in a blunt or plain-spoken fashion – this is simply the way Australians communicate