Guide for Accountants New to Australia
If you've never worked for an Australian company as an accountant there are many things you need to be accross and fully understand before we even consider you for placement. First, lets dive into remote working.
Working Remotely
key challenges:
Working hours: We're an Australian company with Australian based clients. Most of our clients will require you to work within their business hours of 9am - 5pm, the time difference depends on what state the company is. For example Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra are in the AEST time zone which is 8hrs time difference and 9hrs during daylight savings. Please consider seriously how this will impact your health, family and lifestyle. You will often be required to take part in virtual meetings during these times therefore you would participate in meetings when your household is asleep or children are playing at home.
Isolation and Mental Health: Remote work can lead to feelings of isolation, especially for extroverts who thrive on social interactions. The lack of face-to-face communication can also contribute to mental health issues. At FlexiBPO we have quarterly team gatherings where you can socialise and learn together but this will not replace the day to day interactions you may be used to. We are in the process of setting up an office based in Harare but depending on your client needs this may not be available to you.
Distractions: Home environments can be full of distractions, from household chores to family members. This can make it difficult to maintain focus and productivity. It is important to ensure that these distractions can be managed as clients will report this a major concern for productivity. If you are external client facing this is even more critical. One of our managers will inspect your work space to ensure suitability and follow up inspections will be conducted if we're concerned or if we get complaints.
Communication: Without in-person interactions, communication can become less effective. Misunderstandings are more likely, and it can be harder to collaborate and build relationships with colleagues. Different workplaces will have different cultures and way of communicating you will need to be very tuned in right from the start to pick up on communication style , preferences and frequency. Simple things like asking the client how they prefer to communicate will set you up on the right path. Use of Microsoft teams and Slack is very common for the day to day check ins. Please make sure you know how to use these tools and always be professional when doing so. If your manager hasn't initiated regular eg weekly 1:1 virtual meetings we recommend you request these as often this ensures that you're kept up to date with what's going on in the business and clears up misunderstanding.
Work-Life Balance: The line between work and personal life can blur when working from home. This can lead to overworking and burnout as employees find it hard to switch off from work.
Induction and Onboarding: Most clients will prepare SOPs to train and onboard you. Due to the virtual nature of your engagement you will find you may not have as many "face to face" training sessions requiring you to do your own research and trouble shooting to understand processes. The onboarding period is a challenging time as you're adjusting to time differences, a different way of working and the normal challenges of being in a new role so don't underestimate how difficult the first few weeks will be.
Technical Issues: Reliable internet and access to necessary tools and software can be a challenge. Technical difficulties will disrupt work and cause frustration for the client and for you.
Lack of Structure: Without the routine of commuting and office hours, some remote workers struggle to maintain a structured schedule, which can affect productivity and work quality.
Australia at a glance
Australia is a vast and diverse country located in the Southern Hemisphere, known for its unique landscapes, vibrant cities, and varied climate. Here’s a summary for newcomers:
Geography and Climate
​
-
Size: Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world, covering about 7.7 million square kilometers.
-
Climate: The climate varies significantly:
-
Tropical: Northern regions have hot, humid weather with a wet and dry season.
-
Arid/Desert: Central Australia is typically dry and hot, with vast desert areas.
-
Temperate: Southern areas experience milder temperatures and more rainfall, ideal for agriculture.
-
Mediterranean: The southwestern corner has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
​
Major Cities
Sydney (New South Wales):
-
Highlights: Famous for its iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
-
Climate: Generally mild winters and warm summers, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. ​
​
​Melbourne (Victoria):
-
Highlights: Known for its vibrant arts scene, cultural festivals, and diverse food.
-
Climate: Experiences four seasons in one day; winters are cool, and summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) in winter to 26°C (79°F) in summer.
​
Brisbane (Queensland):
-
Highlights: Offers a subtropical climate and is close to popular tourist spots like the Gold Coast.
-
Climate: Warm all year round with mild winters and hot summers, temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.
​
Adelaide (South Australia):
-
Highlights: Known for its wine regions and festivals.
-
Climate: Hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in winter to 29°C (84°F) in summer.
​
Perth (Western Australia):
-
Highlights: Offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle.
-
Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) in winter to 33°C (91°F) in summer.
​
Hobart (Tasmania):
-
Highlights: Known for its historical sites and natural beauty.
-
Climate: Cooler than mainland cities with distinct seasons, temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) in winter to 21°C (70°F) in summer.
Cultural and Lifestyle Highlights
-
Diverse Population: Australia is multicultural, with a blend of cultures and traditions from around the world.
-
Outdoor Lifestyle: Emphasis on outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and barbecuing.
-
Natural Beauty: Home to stunning landscapes including beaches, deserts, and rainforests.
Australia offers a mix of modern urban living and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a unique place to live and explore.
​
WORK CULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT
The work culture and environment in Australia are characterized by a blend of professionalism and informality, reflecting a balanced approach to work and life. Here’s a summary of key aspects:
Australians place a strong emphasis on maintaining a good work-life balance. This is reflected in flexible work arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and a focus on ensuring that work does not excessively intrude into personal time.
Hours: Standard working hours are typically from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, though flexible working hours and remote work are becoming more common.
Communication:
The work environment tends to be less formal compared to some other countries. Colleagues often address each other by first names and communicate in a direct but friendly manner.
Hierarchy: While professional hierarchies exist, Australian workplaces often have a relatively flat organizational structure. Leaders are approachable and open to feedback.
​
Teamwork and Collaboration:
​
Emphasis: Collaboration and teamwork are highly valued. Australian workplaces often encourage a team-oriented approach and value the input and ideas of all employees.
​
Inclusivity: Diverse perspectives and inclusivity are promoted, and workplaces strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
​
Culture: Casual Fridays are common, allowing employees to dress more casually. Social activities, such as team-building events and after-work gatherings, are encouraged to foster a positive work environment and build team cohesion.
​
Health and Safety: Regulations: Australian workplaces are governed by strict health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment. Employers are required to adhere to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards.
Modern Facilities: Many Australian workplaces are equipped with modern facilities and technology. Open-plan offices are common, promoting collaboration and communication.
Remote Work: There is a growing trend towards remote work and flexible office arrangements, influenced by advancements in technology and changing work preferences.
Professional Development:
Training: Professional development and continuous learning are encouraged. Many employers offer training programs, workshops, and opportunities for career advancement.
Diversity and Inclusion:
​
Focus: There is a strong focus on creating diverse and inclusive workplaces. Anti-discrimination laws and policies are in place to promote equal opportunities for all employees.
Overall, the work culture in Australia is characterized by a supportive and balanced approach, with an emphasis on collaboration, flexibility, and a positive work environment.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE
Australia operates under a federal system with three levels of government:
Federal Government: Manages national affairs such as defence, foreign policy, and trade.
State/Territory Governments: Each of the six states and two territories has its own government responsible for areas like education, health, and transportation.
Local Governments: Handle community needs such as local roads, parks, and waste management.
