This exploratory study draws on entrepreneurial action theory, and proposes a theoretical framework to understand the main rationale for companies and their managers to have an international presence. The perspectives of managers representing four international companies operating in the state of Western Australia were examined through in-depth face-to-face interviews. The findings revealed various strong associations with the theory. Notably, while firms’ action was partly motived by the significance of Western Australia’s natural resources, equally important were strategic elements surrounding such decision, including matching or anticipating competitors’ moves. Entrepreneurial action was also manifested among participants, particularly in that their accumulated knowledge and expertise provided an ideal fit with their organisations’ goals. The framework can therefore inform future research, both from a practical and theoretical perspective
