Abstract Using selected Chinese and Australian wheats, flour protein content and composition of high-molecular-weight (HMW) glutenin subunits were studied in relation to northern style Chinese steamed bread quality. Flour protein content had a significant impact on Chinese steamed bread quality. The Chinese wheats were characterised by shorter Farinograph dough development time and stability in comparison with the Australian wheats. Dough stickiness in the Chinese wheat cultivars was a significant factor deteriorating Chinese steamed bread quality. A significant negative correlation was found between Farinograph stability time and steamed bread quality in Australian wheats while a significant and positive correlation existed in Chinese wheats. It would be necessary to increase the dough strength of Chinese wheat cultivars in order to improve their steamed bread making quality.