What is Australian culture?

Australian values?

As we have discussed, culture can be complex and difficult to describe or stereotype one group. This is true for Australia of course but there are some values that are often talked about when people ask, "What is Australian culture".

It can be seen as...

• Relaxed and informal (dress code, language, friendships)

• Friendly (based on mateship)

• Social (going out for work drinks)

• Optimistic and positive outlook (a famous Australian saying is: "She'll be right mate")

• Fair (giving someone a "fair go")

• Importance of family (universal)

• Sports

• Others?

At work this could mean:

•Low on formality

•First name basis early

•Hierarchy is recognised but little deference is shown

•Titles and honorifics rarely used

•More respect for achievement than position

•Dress codes fairly relaxed – but observe others
and ask if not sure

•Punctuality is valued. Call if running late
(late = 10-15 minutes)

•Arrange meetings well
ahead if possible.

•Meetings are time- and agenda-driven

•Some small talk at beginning is acceptable and expected, but only briefly

•People tend to get to the point quickly

Of course, this can be different across other cultures. Australia is considered to be a low context culture. This means high individualism, less social hierarchy (ranks), communication is direct and sometimes impersonal and workers may be comfortable with open confrontation.

Other countries may consider social bonds, ranks, and indirect communication to be more valuable and are considered to be high context cultures.

Complete and Continue