Tips for Business Travelers in Australia

Australia is a diverse economy with people having a good standard of living. It is a country characterized by decent, well mannered and efficient persons. So if you planning for a business trip to Australia then you should be well familiar with the ethics and standard of business practices followed there. Doing business in one's country is relatively easier because one is carelessly aware of the customs, customer expectations and etiquettes followed there but one should definitely brush up one's knowledge before venturing out anywhere else.

Here are some of the tips that might prove helpful to you while going to Australia. Follow them to avoid any blues and goof ups when present there.

1. Australians lay a great deal of emphasis on advance planning, friendly behavior, punctuality and are very direct in their dealings. They use their first name to conduct business and exchange cards for business purpose. They like to do things simply than being ostensible.
2. Proper business attires should be worn during meetings. Suites are common with people in Sydney and Melbourne where those in Brisbane prefer wearing shirts, ties and shorts. It is advisable for new business entrants to wear lightweight suites for initial meetings.
3. Lunch and breakfast over meetings is common. Australians also like to conduct a great deal of business over drinks. It is important to know that these people don't like to postpone their meetings on weekends so try to be as quick and absorbing as possible.
4. Anybody traveling to Australia must hold a valid passport, and either a visa or Electronic Travel Authority. You must consult the Australian embassy, High Commission and Consulates for visa etc. Requirement for resident and work visas are relatively strict, so careful attention must be given to all these aspects.
5. Travel time from U.S to Australia is 14 hours. A non-stop flight can be taken from the West Coast choosing from a number of airlines such as Qantas Airways, United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Air New Zealand. Most of the flights leave in the evening and arrive in Australia early morning. Australia is well connected by air, rail, coach and sea. So, you will not face any commuting problems (for business trips) here.
6. There is no halt on the import of personal items for usage such as laptops, mobiles, wireless microphone and other electronic gadgets but make sure that these equipments are safe to operate there. The power voltage is 240 volts/50 Hz.
7. Lastly, Australia is a safe place in terms of health services and hygiene conditions. Medical and other public safety services are efficient and at par with U.S. So you should not worry much about the health risks.
   

It is very important to be aware of the norms and customs of any new country you are visiting and I hope that all of the above mentioned points will provide answers to most of your questions.