Eight-week rule

The eight-week rule is a widely used Australian slang term referring to an eight-week period at the commencement of a relationship, in which there is no obligation on behalf of either party to offer any form of commitment. At the end of eight weeks it is considered inappropriate to continue the relationship without discussing the terms and conditions of engagement.

The eight-week rule has organically grown out of the loose nature of early relationships. Although the term is not used in any professional marriage or relationship counseling texts, it has strong currency in the modern Australian relationship vernacular, especially with people who are looking for a long term relationship. The eight week time frame is likened to a cooling off period while things are heating up. In particular it is considered morally acceptable for one party to continue the relationship up until the end of the eight week period, even if they think they might not want to commit to a long term partnership.

Conversely, if the relationship continues beyond eight weeks, this is the time for both participants to engage in more serious discussions about their expectations from each other, and for their immediate and long-term future.

The eight-week rule encourages people to enjoy the initial stages of a relationship without getting too serious or analytical. It also sets a time frame for commitment.

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