What is Australian slang?

Australian slang is a collection of informal words and phrases unique to Australia, often featuring shortened words (e.g., 'arvo' for afternoon), rhyming slang, and culturally specific expressions used in everyday conversation.

What are the most common Australian slang words?

The most common Australian slang words include: G'day (hello), Arvo (afternoon), Brekkie (breakfast), Servo (service station), Thongs (flip-flops), Mate (friend), and Reckon (think/believe).

How do Australians say hello?

Australians commonly say 'G'day' as an informal greeting, which is short for 'Good day'. Other common greetings include 'How ya going?' (How are you?).

How to Say “Hello” in Australia

If you’re visiting Australia for the first time, you might expect people to greet each other with a simple “hello.” While that certainly happens, Australians are famous for their relaxed and friendly greetings, many of which can sound a little confusing to newcomers.

From the iconic “G’day” to casual phrases you’ll hear in cafés, shops and beaches, here’s how Australians really say hello.

G’day

G’day is Australia’s most iconic greeting. Short for “good day,” it’s a laid-back greeting used any time of the day. You’ll hear it everywhere, from city streets to the outback, used with mates, strangers, and even in casual professional settings. It’s a great word to use if you want to sound like a local.

For example:

“G’day mate, how’s it going?”

The word became globally famous thanks to films like Crocodile Dundee, but it’s not just a stereotype…Australians genuinely use it.

How Ya Goin’?

One of the most common greetings you’ll hear in Australia is:

“How ya goin’?”

At first, visitors sometimes think they’re being asked about their life story. In reality, it’s simply another way of saying hello.

A typical interaction might sound like this:

“Hey, how ya goin’?”

“Good thanks, mate!”

It’s quick, friendly, and informal.

Hey / Hi

Just like in other English-speaking countries, Australians also use “hey” and “hi.”

These greetings are common in everyday situations, especially among younger people or in casual environments like cafés, workplaces or social settings.

G’day Mate

You’ll often hear “mate” added to greetings. In Australia, mate simply means friend, and it’s used widely, even when speaking to someone you’ve just met.

Examples include:

“G’day mate!”
“How ya going, mate?”
“Hey mate, how’s your day?”

It’s a sign of friendliness and equality, and it’s one of the most recognisable parts of Australian culture. There is an exception, when “mate” is said alone

Morning / Afternoon / Evening

Australians also shorten many time-of-day greetings. Instead of saying “good afternoon,” you might hear a casual greeting of Morning, Afternoon or Evening.

Australians often shorten words, so don’t be surprised if these words sound a little faster and more relaxed than you’re used to.

Any time between noon and about 6pm is in the “arvo”.

The Friendly Aussie Culture

One thing visitors notice quickly is how friendly Australians can be with strangers.

It’s very normal for someone to greet you while walking past on the street, entering a small shop, or waiting in line for coffee.

These small interactions are part of the laid-back Australian lifestyle, where conversations are casual and people tend not to be overly formal.

Final Tip: Don’t Be Afraid to Try It

If you want to blend in a little while visiting Australia, try greeting someone with a friendly:

“G’day!”

Most Australians will appreciate the effort, and it’s a fun way to connect with locals while experiencing the culture.

Want to Learn More Aussie Slang?

Australian English is full of unique words, expressions and cultural quirks that can be confusing at first. If you’d like to understand Australians better and speak like a local, check out our G’Day Galah Aussie Language Guides. They’re packed with common slang, everyday expressions and cultural tips to help you confidently navigate conversations across Australia.