Australia: Prosperous Entertaining
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Entertaining for business success
If you are invited out for a drink, don't bring up the subject of business unless your host does so.
In an Australian pub, bear in mind that each person is expected to pay for a round of drinks which is called a 'shout.' Neglecting your turn to pay for a round will only create a bad impression.
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When hosting a dinner at a restaurant, you might have to bring your own supply of alcohol, since some establishments may not have liquor licenses. These restaurants will have 'BYO' status which means 'Bring Your Own' (wine only). When in doubt, make inquiries ahead of time. Moreover, your Australian guests will likely be displeased if alcohol is not served with meals. Wine is the usual preferred drink at meals, although beer may be drunk beforehand.
Australians do not pick up the tab automatically when they invite people out to dinner. The exception would be if it's a special occasion and they offer to pay either before the meal or at the conclusion of the meal. Australians assume they will go “Dutch” when making casual arrangements to go out.
Australian table manners and settings are similar to those in North America, only more relaxed. The most important difference is that Australians do not typically switch knives and forks as Americans do. The knife remains in the right, and the fork in the left hand. When finished, the knife and fork are laid parallel to one another across the right side of the plate. Pass all dished and serving accessories at the table to your left.
Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world and Australian food reflects this diversity. 'Australian' food is increasingly difficult to define, as Australians commonly eat Italian, Thai, Chinese or European food.
Kangaroo meat is considered a delicacy, although most Australians have never tried it.
You may be invited to an Australian's home, even after a relatively brief acquaintance.
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Australian hospitality tends to be very informal, particularly when you are invited to a home for a barbecue. At a BBQ, you will be encouraged to serve yourself. Hesitation will only cause your hosts to feel annoyance, if only because they genuinely want you to feel ‘at home’.
When coming to someone’s home, it is customary to bring a bottle of wine for their hosts if it is a more formal dinner, or for yourself if it is less formal dinner.
Barbecues, affectionately known as “barbies,” are a very popular form of home entertaining. Guests will be required to dress casually and engage in lively socializing. Men and women often gather separately.
Never ‘drop in’ unannounced to someone’s home. Always phone ahead even if a good friend.
Tipping is not customary for taxi travel in Australia; however, tourists and business travelers in Australia may leave tips, if they wish, and this gesture will be accepted with gratitude. Tips in restaurants are more common, however, but do not generally exceed 10% of the entire bill cost.
