The thesis develops a model of the key strategic decisions necessary for international expansion that may be used as a guide for Australian publicly listed companies in the banking and financial services sector that are seeking to develop their business in foreign markets and, to develop an understanding of the various elements of such a model.  A review of the literature was undertaken to see if a comprehensive model for international business expansion is available for use by Australian companies, with a focus on the banking and financial services sector. The findings from the literature review were that the current literature addresses many aspects of international business expansion, including the location of foreign direct investment, the mode of entry and cultural issues. However, a contribution to the current body of knowledge could be made by drawing together into one place the different theoretical foundations. The findings from various elements of the literature were used to progressively build the model of international expansion by focusing on the key strategic decisions that must be made in looking to expand offshore. The model, based on the literature review, was then supplemented by a case analysis focusing on key factors in the international expansion of one Australian company in the banking and financial services industry. The case analysis involved an examination of published data and a series of interviews with Australian business directors and executives with extensive experience in the formulation and implementation of strategic decisions that a company in the banking and financial services industry must take in expanding offshore. The interviewees were generous with their time and provided many insights from practical experience and a deep level of understanding in the field of international business expansion, as it applies to an Australian company in the banking and financial services sector. These interviews make a further contribution to the current body of knowledge and have been included in full in an appendix to the thesis