Australians are notorious for being very laid back, and you only need to spend a few hours in the country to see how they've earned this reputation. Even in the workplace, Australians tend to be casual. Aussies pride themselves on being unpretentious and straightforward, which can come as a bit of a culture shock for some expats.
The work atmosphere in Sydney
Workplaces, in general, are quite informal in Australia, and this is true for Sydney, too, although obviously, this varies across industries. A bank, a bar, and a construction site will all vary in their workplace attitudes, which are dictated by the industry and the specific company culture and leadership. Be prepared for everything to be a little bit more laid back than you're used to, including the dress code and the type of language used in both formal meetings and social interactions. On the whole, expats in Sydney generally find the change of pace quite appealing and get used to it without much difficulty.
If you're new to Australian culture, get prepared for lots of jokes, teasing, banter, mockery, and swearing. The use of profanity, which might be extremely inappropriate in other countries, is generally acceptable in Australian conversations. However, it is recommended that you observe how your colleagues behave before you bust out a string of obscenities.
Meetings in Sydney
Formal meetings in Sydney offices often begin with “check-ins” and some casual, social conversation rather than leaping straight into business. Participating and sharing your own experiences with your colleagues helps build rapport and intimacy within a team and allows you to get to know your associates better. An unwritten rule is to avoid topics related to politics and religion at work (unless they are naturally part of the conversation), which helps avoid any uncomfortable situations.
As an expatriate, you may feel a need to adapt to the type of language used by those around you. However, Australians value honesty and authenticity and don't expect expats to alter their habits or language if it doesn't feel right.
On the whole, Australian companies are very concerned about the comfort and safety of their employees. They regularly ask their staff for feedback and suggestions on ways to improve the work environment.
Dress code in Sydney
Each company in Sydney has its own dress code, but Australian business attire is generally more informal than elsewhere. When business attire is required, for men, it usually involves a shirt, tie, and formal pants. Women have a wider choice, although Australian women tend to avoid short skirts and tight-fitting outfits. Many businesses in Sydney have adopted the practice of “Casual Fridays”, where you are allowed to dress as would in an informal situation.
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