Doing Business in Australia

If you happen to be face to face with an aboriginal, do never ask "Still throwing spears?" like Prince Philip of Edinburgh did when he visited the country in 2002. And beware if you are one of those who like flaunting around your business title…it's most likely that you will be cynically dismissed as a snobbish foreigner. 

COMMUNICATION AND BEHAVIOUR

• Australians are usually warm and enthusiastic debaters.
• Australians find controversial discussions entertaining.
• It is common for Australians to make provocative statements during conversation and it is expected that you respond with humour.
• Immigration and aboriginal issues are topics to avoid. Sport is a common topic of conversation.
• Australians like to criticise themselves, but they aren't that receptive to criticism from other people.
• Don't gloat over yourself or your company's achievements.
• Likewise, do not go around advertising your title.
• If you are invited out for a drink, don't recall the subject of business unless your counterpart does so.
• In an Australian pub, each person is expected to pay for a round of drinks which is called a "shout".
• Avoiding your turn to pay will only create a bad impression of you.
• When talking to an Australian, keep an arm's length distance from the person.
• Strong eye-contact essential.
• The best approach is to remain friendly, relaxed and modest and to avoid nervousness or self-importance.
• Australians are extremely hard to impress. Even if you do manage to do it, they may not openly admit it…

DOING BUSINESS

• Business hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday.
• For the business traveller, the best time to visit the country is from March to November, since the tourist season occurs from December to February.
• It is ok to present a business card at an introduction.
• Remain modest at all times.
• A big deal of cynicism is directed at people who seem too wealthy or powerful. In Australian culture, there is greater respect for the "underdog."
• Usually Australians dislike aggressive sales techniques.
• Be straightforward, with an emphasis on both the positive and negative outcomes. Keep your presentation simple and to the point.
• Australians tend to be receptive to new ideas.
• Australian businesspeople will normally emphasise profit over market share.
• The work environment in Australian business culture is rather collaborative. Before a decision is made, top management will consult subordinates.
• Decision-making will therefore be slow but in your best interest do not try to rush it.
  Australians do not find it hard to say "no."
• Offering gifts is not part of Australian business culture but it's acceptable to bring a token from your country (wine, handicrafts, etc.)