Australian Connection in Asia: Australians Working in Singapore

Abstract

There is a significant gap in the research literature on Australians working in Singapore. The aim of this paper is to make a contribution to the research evidence base by presenting the results of a survey of the Australian expatriate community working in Singapore. A mixed methods approach using both quantitative and qualitative data revealed that the average Australian working in Singapore was well educated and generally worked as a professional or in senior management position. Most saw that working in Singapore was a significant career opportunity, but also saw that one of the main benefits of working in Singapore was the low tax rate in Singapore compared to Australia. Many saw that building personal and professional relationships while they were in Asia was important to investment for Australia’s connection with Asia in the future. The study provides recommendations for future policy and practice.