Business etiquitte in Australia - with Melburnian nuances!
Australia’s business culture reflects its unique blend of global influences and local values. Australia’s business approach is informal, driven by an egalitarian ethos that values equality and mutual respect. It is solutions focused, favours honesty, creativity and adaptability.
In Melbourne, these values take on a distinctive flavour. Known for its vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, Melbourne emphasises creative problem solving and collaboration, making it an ideal location for innovative partnerships and investment opportunities.
Below are key practices and nuances that can help you navigate doing business in Australia.
Common business practices and things to know
Business culture
- Australians value straightforward, solutions-focused communication that prioritises honesty
- We favour a flatter leadership structure with a team-oriented approach to decision making
- Teamwork is highly valued where collaboration and accountability are expected
- We welcome open dialogue, fostering inclusivity and diverse ideas. We are likely to provide honest feedback
- Innovation, technology adoption and creative problem solving are core to Australian business, with a willingness to take calculated risks for success
- Australia is multicultural and inclusive. Our workforce fosters broad perspectives and global business adaptability
- Building strong networks and relationships, often fostered through social settings, is highly valued
- We prioritise work-life balance, which enhances productivity and well-being. Typical business hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. There isn’t an expectation that people will work on the weekends.
Business etiquette
- Our professional greeting is a firm handshake with eye contact, and addressing people by their first name is typical
- Time is respected, and meetings generally start on schedule, reflecting efficiency and professionalism
- Appropriate dress can vary depending on industry, however smart casual attire has been widely adopted
- A catch up over coffee is commonplace, especially in Melbourne!
- Before getting into business, we usually have a few minutes of social chat - for example about the weather, sport or impersonal things. We value humility over self-promotion. Displays of wealth and opulence are often viewed unfavourably.
Gift giving
- Gift giving in Australia is not expected and if occurs is generally modest. Australians value sincerity and practicality over extravagant gestures, and gift-giving is often symbolic rather than lavish
- Australian and Victorian government officials operate under strict codes of conduct regarding gift acceptance. Gifts of significant value are discouraged or may need to be declared and handed over to the agency.
Other considerations
- Our main holiday period is during the months of December and January. Many people take extended holidays at this time and some industries shut down operations completely – especially between Christmas and New Year.
Adhering to responsible business standards
All organisations operating in Australia should be aware of and meet the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.
The guidelines provide principles and standards for responsible business behaviour, consistent with applicable domestic laws.
The guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government.