The framework for the Australian federal government was inspired in part by the United States’ constitution, the three branches of government, and the separation of power between those branches (Wikipedia). Like the United States, Australia also has multiple individual states that are governed from both a state and a federal level (Australian). Although Australia’s Queen is represented by their governor-general, the head of state is their Prime Minister: Malcolm Turnbull (Australian). Recent political movements in Australia have attempted to separate from the British Empire’s commonwealth, but all referendums have failed thus far (Wikipedia). Although this change is unlikely in the recent future, the scenario is not expected to have any substantial effects on their business climate.
Business Norms:
The average work week in Australia is very similar to that in the United States. Typical businesses, offices, and shops operate from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday (Kimmorley). A full time worker in Australia can expect to work anywhere from 35 to 40 hours a week (Kimmorley). The average worker also gets four to five weeks of leave a year depending on the company (Kimmorley).
Customs, Traditions, and Etiquette:
The Australian culture is one that enjoys celebrating holidays. Although it depends on the territory or state, Australia’s national holidays include the following: …show more content…
A business meeting in Australia should be planned with as much lead time as possible (Commisceo). Meetings typically have a casual atmosphere and begin with small talk, but they get down to business once the leader starts to talk (Commisceo). The only people that should be invited to a meeting are those who are directly involved with the subject matter. Australians value brevity, so unnecessary people or information in meetings is disliked (Kimmorley).
Australia tends to favor the deal-focused business culture. They value genuine business partners that are honest and up-front with their thoughts. They often use direct, sometimes sounding blunt, language and are not afraid to say what is on their mind. However, sometimes their communication style might seem relationship-focused. This is because they dislike of high pressure sales tactics and find them aggressive, pushy, or self-centered (Kimmorley).
Australia also has a very informal business culture. They put little value in one’s position, title, or status; instead they prefer to judge someone by the work they do (Commisceo). Many companies in Australia often use a flat hierarchy management structure