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Language

The primary language spoken in Australia is English. However, modern Australia is highly multicultural, and more than 30% of Australian residents were born overseas. In Perth you will hear many languages spoken in daily life, particularly within universities, research institutes and the hospitality sector.

Australia is also home to many Aboriginal languages. Across the country, more than 100 Indigenous languages remain in use, although only a smaller number are still spoken across multiple generations.

Australian English is generally easy to understand for international visitors, although some local slang and expressions can occasionally be confusing. Australians also tend to shorten words whenever possible.

Australian English

Australian spelling generally follows British English conventions rather than American English. For example:

  • colour rather than color
  • organise rather than organize
  • centre rather than center

In conversation, Australians are usually informal and relaxed. Terms such as mate, no worries, or how ya going? are commonly used in both social and professional settings.

And yes — somebody may well call you mate within minutes of arriving.

Commonly used Australian words and phrases

Some expressions are unique to Australia; others are used in a completely different way from elsewhere. With the following words and phrases, you will get pretty far (see also Nomads World):

    • G'day: Hello.
    • How ya goin'?: How are you?.
    • No worries: No problem / You're welcome.
    • Fair dinkum: True, genuine, or amazing.
    • Good on ya: Good job / well done.
    • Righto: Alright / Okay.
    • Ta: Thank you.
    • Bloody: Used for emphasis (e.g., "bloody oath" – absolutely, "bloody ripper" - something really excellent, impressive, or enjoyable).
    • Barbie: Barbecue.
    • Brekkie: Breakfast.
    • Cuppa: A cup of tea or coffee.
    • Esky: A cooler for drinks.
    • Maccas: McDonald's.
    • Snag: Sausage.
    • Stubby holder: Insulated beer holder.
    • Mate: Friend (or often used for a stranger).
    • Bogan: An unsophisticated or unrefined person.
    • Outback: Remote, inland Australia.
    • Bush: Non-urban areas
    • Thongs: Flip-flops.
    • Sunnies: Sunglasses.
    • Boardies: Boardshorts/swimwear.
    • Bathers/Togs: Swimsuit.
    • Uggies: Ugg boots.
    • Arvo: Afternoon.
    • Avo: Avocado.
    • Bikkie: Biscuit.
    • Mozzie: Mosquito.
    • Tinny: A can of beer (or a small boat). 
    • Flat out: Very busy.
    • Chockers: Very full/crowded.
    • U-ie: A U-turn while driving.
    • Budgie smugglers: Men's swimwear (speedos).
    • Mad as a cut snake: Very angry or crazy.

And don't be surprised if somebody addresses you with Sweety or Mate...