Culture and PR

Here is shortly some information about culture and public relations in Australia and in New Zealand.

These countries have some similarities. New Zealand and Australia were originally settled by indigenous people, Maoris and Aboriginals. Later both countries became British colonies and especially Australia still attracts immigrants. Despite the similarities significant differences in cultural identity are evident.

Hence public relations practice within New Zealand and Australia reflects the multicultural nature of the two countries. Within both countries conferences have addressed issues of multiculturalism. As earlier mentioned in this blog there are e.g. PR consultancies specialized in intercultural communication from Maori or variety of ethnic perspectives.

Also when doing PR in Australia and New Zealand there are features reguired to take into account. In New Zealand these features are sensitivity to Maori cultural values, gender equity issues and environmental management.

In New Zealand and Australia western global business practices are mostly prevalent. If you are interested, here you can see the Hofstede's dimensions in Australia and in New Zealand. Hofstede's four value dimensions generally apply to both countries, but the model does tend to act as an essentializing discourse, neglecting the nuances of bicultural and multicultural policies.

Written by Sanna

Sourse: Sriramesh, K. (2003). The Global Public Relations Handbook. Theory, Research, and Practice. LEA. New Jersey. P. 134-136.