CULTURAL INFORMATION
Australian work culture is quite different from many other countries. It is important to familiarise yourself with the cultural practices in Australia in order for you to be competitive in finding work and in performing well once employed.
Communication
- Informal communication – the use of Australian slang is common, as is the discussion of non-work matters
- Socialising – workers often socialise at lunchtime, during breaks or after work.
- Sense of Humour – a good sense of humour is also valued in the workplace, as long as no one gets offended.
- Professional Communication – despite the use of informal language and humour, workers should communicate in a professional manner at all times.
- Non-verbal language – when being introduced, Australians will usually shake hands and, in professional jobs, exchange business cards.
- The use of direct eye contact when speaking with others is very important.
Hierarchy and Leadership
- The Australian workplace is usually not overly formal and hierarchical, but there are clear lines of authority and decision-making.
- Workers usually talk on an equal basis with their superiors, sometimes using humour or irreverence which can be seen as a sign of disrespect in other cultures.
- Promotions in the Australian workplace are usually based on merit and seniority rather than on other factors.
- Being a good team member is an important skill sought by Australian employers.
- Workers in lower level positions (e.g. cleaners, filing clerks, delivery people) are usually treated with respect and as equals by those above them.
General
- Australians generally prefer to maintain a ‘work-life balance’, believing in the principal of ‘working to live’ rather than ‘living to work’.
- The Australian workplace is increasingly diverse. In most workplaces, you can expect a multicultural mix: more than 40% of Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas.
- Other forms of diversity include: single and married women and men, sole parents, people with disabilities, those of various sexual preferences, various age groups, and those who work flexible hours.
Did you know…?
Did you know that ABC Television has an online site where you can view some of their programs? ABC iView is free and you can view educational programs on building English skills and understanding of Australian culture. Just beware – you do have to pay your internet service provider (ISP) for the “bandwidth” you use when you download the programs, and this can build up quickly.
ABC iView has an educational section in which you can watch episodes of regular programs such as:
- Australian Network Learning
- Passport to English
- The Business of English
- English Bites
- Living English
- 10 Words
- Study English
- This Australian Life
Go to http://www.abc.net.au/iview to find to find out more.
Other useful links:
Slideshare webinars on Australian Workplace Culture http://www.slideshare.net/ursula_walker
Culture Resource Centre www.cultureresourcecentre.com.au
Crossing Cultures www.crossingcultures.com.au
