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As an American who worked in Australia, I can vouch that you guys (luckily) don't share our same crazy work ethic. I was practically alone in the office of a large corporation once the clock struck 4pm on a Friday. I think you'd fit in well in New York though because they have the same teasing sense of humor that I found everywhere down under.

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As an Australian in California, and having lived and worked in two European countries too, I'd say that Australians work less hours but actually are more focused when they do work. I see a lot Americans at work, but not doing work. Long lunches, chatting to colleagues around the office, browsing websites etc. seems to be far more prevalent in American workspaces.

Interestingly, I once read a study that said that Aussies do the most overtime of any western nation, which seemed off. Shrug

As a Brazilian who has worked with Europeans and Americans, I have to tell you that we work a lot more down here. Workdays are usually 8h30 to 18h15, as we have 44h weeks and lunchtime is not included!

On the other hand, we do have 30 day vacations plus the holidays.

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