Understanding Australian Slang: How To Use “Mate” In Australia

As an Aussie who has been living overseas since 2001, I always love being reminded when I come home how different Australia really is.

The weather, the people, the food, the friendliness and the “mateship culture” that we are proud of and often forget we have. It stems from the years guys spent in the trenches during the World Wars, and today in Australia it is stronger than ever!

But more than the idea of mateship, is the actual use of the word “mate”.

It’s the one thing that I always start saying, usually within seconds of landing in Sydney. But someone, when I am back in Switzerland where I live, it never gets used. Unless I see a group of Aussie guys I know.

Mate – it’s such a versatile, yet often misunderstood part of Australian slang.

So, in this quick post, I thought I would clarify a the usage of the word “mate” and many of it’s fun and handy meanings.

Not only to help you, as a first-time visitor to Australia (or a newly landed immigrant) but also to remind me how to speak my own language – ‘Stralian!

When Not To Use “Mate”

The first thing you have to understand about “mate” is that it is used mostly by guys, to other guys.

Sure, there are exceptions, but it is a very male-oriented word.

Some women will say it. Many like to use it, but more often than not, you will hear “blokes” saying it to other blokes. Especially in the city.

If you want to get into the Australian way of life, try some other Aussie slang like:

• G’day – Good day or in more modern language “hi”
• No worries – No problem, or you’re welcome, depending on the context
• She’ll be right – It’ll be ok
• Arvo – Afternoon
• Servo – Petrol station
• Caf – Cafe
• Tinnie – Can of beer
• Beer o’clock – time for a beer

7 Ways People Use “Mate” In Australia

Instead of Friend

“He’s my best mate!”

Mate and friend are interchangeable in Australia. And we will often refer to our friends as “a mate of mine” or “our mates”.

Guys will have a boys night out with “their mates”. And I will often going and visit “a mate of mine”.

Thanking Someone

A slight variation of the friend scenario, is when you use “mate” because you don’t know someone or just to make it quick.

“Thanks mate!” or even a less emphasised “thanks, mate”.

You will hear this everywhere – at the shops, when someone opens the door