Doing business & staying in touch

Sydney: In keeping with its distinctly work-hard, play-hard mantra, the protocol in Sydney is typically informal. During the week, business is often conducted over a long lunch, with alcohol included, and the weekend can start as early as Friday lunchtime. As with the UK, officewear now errs more on the side of casual (corporate types notwithstanding). Business hours are typically weekdays 0900-1730, although an extended working day is very common in many sectors and it is not unusual for people to be working well into the night or over the weekend.

Australians are a very friendly people and socialising comes easily. Nevertheless, there are a few things that may offend or annoy. The first is the use of the informal ‘G'day' - foreigners trying to emulate this overused greeting is akin to turning up to a business meeting misguidedly wearing a Crocadile Dundee hat in an attempt to culturally integrate – cringeworthy.

The second is that, while out drinking, a system of ‘rounds' is observed and it is not appreciated when someone skips his or her round by not offering to pay. Gift giving is not a common practice, although a good bottle of Australian wine will be welcome if you’re invited to a local house for dinner.