Australian Culture / Common Australian Slang

Common Australian Slang

Australian English is well known for its colourful collection of slang terms and sayings. Listed below are some of the more common sayings: 

Arvo  Afternoon.

Barbie Barbecue.

Bloke A male.

Brolly  An umbrella.

BYO Bring Your Own alcohol, usually to an unlicensed restaurant

Crook To be sick or not good, also angry.

Dodgy Bad quality

Footy  Refers to either Rugby League, Rugby Union, or Australian Rules football.

G’Day  Hello, welcome.

Grog  General name for alcohol.

Mate  Friend, buddy.

Mozzie  Mosquito.

No worries  Don’t worry, everything is okay.

Sanger Sandwich.

Schooner  Large glass of beer (15oz).

Shout To pay for food or drinks for another person.

Swish Fancy, elegant

Sunnies Sunglasses

Togs Swimming costume (Queensland)  also known as bathers

Vegemite  Sometimes referred to as Australia’s national spread on toast & sandwiches.