Aussie slang is a fun part of how people in Australia talk. It makes everyday words sound relaxed and friendly. Australians use slang all the time without thinking about it, so kids will hear it at school, at the beach, at the shops and pretty much everywhere they go.
A lot of Aussie slang comes from shortening words to make them quick and easy to say. Afternoon becomes arvo. Service station becomes servo. Breakfast becomes brekky. These short words help people chat in a simple, cheerful way.
Some Aussie words come from Aboriginal languages. Many names for animals, places and landscapes started with First Nations people. Words like kangaroo, koala, billabong and cooee are used every day and help kids learn about the long history of Australia.
Australia is home to people from many cultures, so lots of different languages are spoken across the country. This mix adds new sounds and ideas to the way Australians talk. It helps Aussie slang grow and change over time.
Aussie slang shows the friendly spirit of Australia. Learning a few common words helps kids feel confident when they chat with others and makes everyday conversations more fun.
This guide helps you understand what those words mean, so you can speak like a true Aussie kid.
Food & Drink Words
- Brekky – breakfast.
- Sanga – sandwich.
- Choccy – chocolate.
- Bikkie – biscuit or cookie.
- Lollies – sweets or candy.
- Macca’s – McDonald’s.
Everyday Things
- Arvo – afternoon.
- Bathers – swimmers (WA word for swimwear).
- Sunnies – sunglasses.
- Thongs – flip-flops.
- Trackies – trackpants.
- Brolly – umbrella.
- Servo – service station (where you get fuel and snacks).
- Ute – utility vehicle with a tray on the back.
Feelings & Reactions
- Stoked – really happy or excited.
- Spewin’ – disappointed or upset.
- Cranky – grumpy.
- Buggered – very tired.
- Stuffed – exhausted or broken.
- Ripper – awesome or really good.
Talking With Friends
- Mate – friend.
- G’day – hello.
- No worries – it’s okay / don’t stress.
- Good on ya – well done.
- Oi! – hey! (to get someone’s attention).
- Sook – someone being a bit whiny or dramatic.
- Yous – kid slang for “you all” (plural you).
Outdoors & Adventure Words
- Mozzie – mosquito.
- Chook – chicken.
- Grom – kid who surfs.
- Gnarly – cool or tricky (surf/skate word).
- Chuck a U-ey – do a U-turn in the car.
- Nanna nap – short sleep during the day.
How to Use Aussie Slang
You don’t have to use every slang word all the time. Start with a few favourites, like arvo, brekky and no worries. Listen to how other kids talk, and try using one or two new words each day.
Remember: slang should be fun and friendly. Use it with mates, in stories, and when you’re talking about Aussie life.
