You work at a large hotel in a socially diverse team. The reception team is made up of Fathima, a 20-year-old Muslim woman born in Australia who loves art; Charlie, a 33-year-old Buddhist from India who loves to play soccer on the weekend; and yourself. Sam, a 20-year-old Indigenous Australian from Queensland, is one of the porters. Cheryl, the accounts manager, is Jewish and has three young grandchildren who she often helps to babysit. Each team member has their own background and customs.

1- In order for your team to work together productively, it is necessary to embrace multiculturism. Describe multiculturism and the 4 distinct principles that make up Australia’s national multiculturism policy and need to be applied to the hotel.

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2- Charlie has been getting frustrated at work, as Fathima prays 5 times daily as part of her religious practices as this sometimes leaves Charlie at reception by himself during peak times. Charlie knows little about Islam. He has complained to you when you have worked with him, and made jokes about Fathima. What social and cultural issues might be causing this conflict?

3- You feel unsure as to what to do about the conflict between Charlie and Fathima. What are your responsibilities as a fellow team member in this situation?

4- Describe the steps that can be taken by management to ensure that this cross-cultural misunderstanding between Charlie and Fathima is managed before it escalates.

Step1:

Step2:

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5- It is important to respect and understand your colleagues’ varying cultural backgrounds in order to work well as a team. What beliefs may be part of Sam’s cultural background as a Indigenous Australian? What would be the possible cultural requirements and provisions for Sam at work?

6- You’re helping to organise the hotel’s end-of-year party. What religious dietary considerations do you need to take into account for each of your colleagues identified in this scenario?