Understanding Australian Slang: A Fun Guide for Newcomers

Studying abroad in Australia is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, exploring breathtaking landscapes, learn about almost 300,000 unique species of wildlife, and of course, expose yourself to the local language. For those unfamiliar with Australian English, the language is a blend between American English and British English with its own distinct accent, characterised by distinguishing vowel sounds, rising intonation, and laid-back, easygoing cadence.

As an international student, getting used to the Aussie accent is just the start. Understanding Aussie slang and expressions can be a whole new challenge. Australian slang is full of colourful phrases that might leave newcomers scratching their heads.

To help you fit in and feel more like a local, here are 12 common Aussie slang terms and phrases you should know before arriving Down Under.

12 must-know Aussie slang terms

Like any country, Australia has a wide range of slang expressions and there are some pretty popular ones you might’ve even heard of before. Read on for our complete top 12 Aussie slang list.

Aussie slang #1: G’day

• Meaning: Good day

• Usage: G’day is an informal way of saying “hello” or “good day.” Use it when meeting someone new or just passing by a friend.

• Example: “G’day, how are you?”

Aussie slang #2: Mate

• Meaning: Friends or buddy

• Usage: In Australia, “mate” is a friendly way to refer to anyone from a close friend to a stranger. It’s a key part of Aussie friendliness and can even be used with a hint of irony if someone’s frustrated with a sports player, for example.

• Example: “G’day, mate, how’s it going?”

Aussie slang #3: Arvo

• Meaning: Afternoon

• Usage: “Arvo” is a casual way of saying “afternoon.” If someone invites you to a “barbie in the arvo,” they’re talking about a barbecue later in the day.

• Example: “I’m meeting my sister at the park on Sunday arvo.”

Aussie slang #4: Brekkie

• Meaning: Breakfast

• Usage: Australians use “brekkie” to refer to breakfast, whether it’s a big meal or a simple bowl of cereal to start the day.

• Example: “What’s for brekkie today?”

Aussie slang #5: Uni

• Meaning: University

• Usage: The word uni is used in both Australia, New Zealand, and the UK; and while it’s not very common in Canada or the US, most people would still understand if you said it.

• Example: “I’m going to uni next year.”

Aussie slang #6: Macca’s

• Meaning: “Macca’s” is a nickname for McDonald’s

• Usage: If you mention “Macca’s” in the US or Canada, you’d get some funny look. But in Australia, it’s a common way to refer to McDonald’s. In fact, McDonald’s even changed its name to Macca’s at stores across the country for Australia Day in 2013 — and still refers to itself as Macca’s today.

• Example: “I’m craving a cheeseburger. Where’s the closest Macca’s?”

Aussie slang #7: No worries

• Meaning: No problems or you’re welcome

• Usage: “No worries” is a common way to say that something is not a big deal or to respond to a thank you. It’s often used to reassure people that everything is okay and they don’t need to worry.

• Example: “Thanks for covering my shift!” — No worries, I don’t mind at all.

Aussie Slang #8: She’ll be right

• Meaning: Everything will be okay

• Usage: “She’ll be right” is a hopeful way to say that things will turn out fine. In Australian English, she is often used instead of it for situations. So, instead of “it’ll be right,” Australians say “she’ll be right,” according to the Australian National Dictionary Centre.

• Example: “I’m worried about applying to a university abroad. But I know if I work hard, she’ll be right.”

Aussie slang #9: Uey

• Meaning: U-turn

• Usage: If someone says “Do a uey,” they mean you should make a U-turn.

• Example: “We missed the turn. Just do a uey up ahead.”

Aussie slang #10: Chucking a sickie

• Meaning: Take a day off from work or school when you’re not actually sick

• Usage: This term means calling in sick when you’re not actually sick. You do this because you just want a day off

• Example: “I don’t feel like going into uni today. I think I’ll just chuck a sickie.”

Aussie slang #11: My shout

• Meaning: My treat, I’ll pay

• Usage: In this context, “shout” does not mean to yell. It means “my treat” or “I’ll pay”. When you say this, you’re offering to cover the cost of something like food or drinks, and you don’t expect anyone to pay you back.

• Example: Don’t worry about it! It’s my shout!

Aussie slang #12: Veggo

• Meaning: Vegetarian

• Usage: About 3% of Australians are vegetarian, and 1% are vegan. If you’re a veggo, you won’t have trouble finding options, as many supermarkets and restaurants offer plenty of meat-free choices.

• Example: My brother is a veggo. He cooked some amazing veggies burgers on the barbie last week.

Australia is calling

Whether you’re heading to Sydney, Brisbane or Adelaide for your studies, learning Aussie slang will enhance your experience. From casual greetings to unique expressions, these 12 Aussie slang words will help you navigate the distinct language and culture of Australia.

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