Greeting

A handshake is the usual way people greet each other.

When meeting a potential Australian business partner, remember to keep your handshake brief (just a few seconds) and firm.

A weak handshake can come across as a lack of confidence, hesitation, or even dishonesty.

In Australian business settings, it’s normal for men and women to shake hands. However, men are expected to wait until the woman offers her hand first.

Women don’t always shake hands with each other in business, and that’s completely fine.

During a handshake, it’s important to make direct eye contact.

Hugging, shoulder pats, or kisses are generally not common in formal situations and are typically avoided.

Overall, greetings in Australian business culture are fairly relaxed and informal.

Introduction

When greeting someone during an initial business meeting, say your last name first, then add “Pleased to meet you.”

Common greetings also include “Hello” and “Good day”, though “Good day” is a bit old-fashioned these days.

In Australia — even in business — you might hear “G’day, mate.” It’s best not to copy this phrase yourself, especially since it’s not considered appropriate in all circles.

When speaking to someone senior in rank or position, or to an official, use Mr, Ms, or Mrs followed by their last name.

In Australia, people usually switch to first-name basis fairly quickly — even in business. Colleagues nearly always call each other by first name.

Wait until your partner invites you to use their first name. This might even come from someone older or more senior.

If you hold any titles or academic ranks, it’s best not to mention them when introducing yourself in a business setting — it may come across as bragging.

Honorifics and titles aren’t normally used in business, though they’re more common in academia, politics, or when addressing British-knighted individuals.

University professors usually prefer to be addressed as “Professor”, both in writing and in conversation.

When meeting a Governor for the first time, use “Your Excellency”, and later switch to “Sir” or “Madam.”

Exchange of Business Cards

Business cards are usually exchanged either during introductions at a first meeting, or later in the conversation when participants decide it's useful to share contact details for possible future meetings.

Business cards in Australia are generally simple, containing basic information such as name, company name, postal and email addresses, phone number, and website.

There is no special ritual or formal protocol for exchanging business cards — the process is quite casual.

Small Talk: Overview

Small talk is usually pretty short — just a quick exchange of pleasantries like “How was your trip?” or “How did you get here?” After that, people tend to get straight to business.

Even if you’ve got some impressive achievements in your career or elsewhere, it’s best not to bring them up when talking to Australian partners. It might come across as too self-promoting or like you're pushing your company too hard.

Australians often use a bit of self-deprecating humor, even when they’re talking about other people’s successes.

Nature and everything connected to it — like spending time outdoors or caring for the environment — are especially important in Australian culture.

Preferred Topics

Local sports – it’s a good idea to find out in advance which sports are popular in the specific area you’re visiting.

All across Australia, popular conversation topics include sports like rugby (especially the national team, the Wallabies), Australian Rules Football (known locally as "footy"), and cricket.

Nature and its unique features, both across Australia and in specific regions, are also great topics.

Current events that aren’t too controversial (so steer clear of religion or politics).

Major events like the Melbourne Cup (horse racing), the Australian Open (tennis), and the Formula 1 Grand Prix are popular topics throughout the country.

Sharing positive impressions of Australia, its nature, cities, etc., is always appreciated.

Weekend plans — though it’s best to save this topic for later, not during the very first meeting.

And of course, the weather — always a safe choice!

Taboo Topics

Politics and religion are considered off-limits — best to avoid those topics.

Australians tend to steer clear of discussing personal or family matters in formal or business settings.

Try not to mention your achievements, titles, awards, or honors — it can come off as bragging.

The topic of Aboriginal Australians, their living conditions, and related issues can be sensitive, so approach with caution or avoid it altogether unless it's clearly appropriate.

Don’t ask questions about salary, career progression, or professional status — those are seen as too personal.

Personal Space

When talking, Australians usually stand about an arm’s length apart. The distance might be a bit more if it’s between a man and a woman. It really depends on how well the people know each other.

Try to avoid physical contact, except for handshakes. Only close friends or people who’ve known each other for a long time might hug or give a friendly pat on the shoulder, back, or arm.

Keeping eye contact during a conversation is important—it shows you're being honest and open. Just don’t overdo it, or the other person might feel uncomfortable.

If you’re speaking to a group, try to make eye contact with everyone, not just one person.

Many Indigenous Australians may avoid direct eye contact, especially with someone older. In their culture, that can be seen as a sign of respect.

Communication Specifics

Australians tend to have a fairly direct and open communication style. This means they usually express their thoughts clearly and choose words that best match what they want to say—without relying much on body language, gestures, facial expressions, or indirect phrases.

In business meetings, your Australian counterpart will likely prefer to get straight to the point rather than beat around the bush. The same approach will be expected from you.

Australians are usually open to discussion, not afraid of critical opinions, and they respect people who can defend their views clearly and confidently.

Overly formal communication isn’t the norm. A relaxed, friendly, and fairly casual tone is more typical.

It’s very important not to brag about yourself or your company’s achievements. Doing so can come across as self-promotion or acting superior, which won’t be well received.