What you need to know about parenting in Australia
Raising children anywhere in the world comes with unique challenges and rewards. What about parenting in Australia? But parenting in Australia?
My children were born and raised here, so I have learned that parenting in Australia is like a special club with unspoken rules, traditions, and funny quirks. I have two children who were raised in Australia. Through them, I discovered that parenting is a very special club with unspoken rules and traditions.
If you are new to Australia or a local who is curious about how Aussies raise their children, here are 15 facts you must know.
1. Tomato Sauce is a Great Addition to Any Meal
This is a pretty national institution. You may be surprised if there isn’t a bottle (yes, of ketchup!) in your refrigerator or on the table. Sausages? Drenched. Meat pies? Smothered. Grilled cheese sandwich? You bet. Veggies? Why not?
The first time I served my son plain steamed broccoli, he stared blankly at me until I pointed out the sauce. Two-minute noodles? Check. Weet-Bix? You guessed correctly. If your children don’t enjoy it, check to see if they are Australian.
2. The Perfect Christmas Involves a Beach, a Barbecue, and a Bodyboard, not Snow
In Australia, Christmas is not about snowflakes and sleighbells. It’s more about the smell of hot sausages on the barbecue and sand in your toes. By the age of five, my kids can ride a board and use a bat with ease.
Aussie Christmases are often spent outdoors: beach towels (flip-flops), sunblock, and that unmistakable summer holiday buzz. Santa may have swapped his fur coat for board shorts, but magic remains the same.
3. Children Must Follow their Parents’ Football Team, No Exceptions
No matter where you live, your child will always be loyal to their team. Every family has its team, whether it is AFL or NRL.
I’ve seen toddlers proudly wearing their team’s shirt, and teenagers debating their club’s tactics like seasoned pundits. Footy is more than just a game. It’s also a means of family connection, a source of pride, and a catalyst for heated (but friendly!) debates. Family rivalries.
4. Cricket is Unavoidable – Whether You Want It Or Not
Be prepared if you are a parent who is not naturally attracted to cricket. Your kids will likely develop an obsession with it.
The pattern is funny: the more parents (especially fathers) try to avoid the game, the more children are drawn to it. The sport is played at all times — in school, during weekends, and even on family holidays. Many Australian childhoods are shaped by the sound of leather on oak.
When summer comes, backyard cricket is almost a national pastime.
5. The Men Who Appear in a Successful Kids’ Show are Good-Looking (seriously)
Australian children’s TV is an odd thing. It seems to be a commonality that it casts charming, attractive men as hosts. Imagine Jimmy Giggle and Eddie Perfect. They make storytimes and sing-alongs special.
You’ll soon realize that these TV personalities are legends among Australian children. These TV personalities are not only entertainers, but also part of Australian family life, the soundtrack to childhood, and the face of Aussie education and fun.
6. “Rubbers”, Erasers, Are Not What You Think
Ah, the confusion caused by language differences. When you ask for “rubbers” when buying school supplies, don’t worry if you get erasers instead of condoms.
Aussie slang can be confusing for newcomers. The little misunderstandings may make you laugh or blush, but they are part of the charms of parenting in Australia.
Remember: If your child says “rubber,” they probably mean something that erases pencil markings.
7. The Queen Has More than One Birthday and Nobody is Sure How Old She Is
The Queen’s birthday is celebrated differently depending on where you live.
In the majority of Australia, it is held on the second Monday of June. In Queensland and Western Australia, it is held in September. In New Zealand, nd it is held in early June. In the UK, it falls on a Saturday in June.
After years of living in Australia, I still wonder: how many birthdays does the Queen have? Why is this tradition important to Australian kids? It’s a long weekend for parents, which is something they all appreciate.
8. No Matter What You Call Them, They Must Protect Your Skin From Sun Damage
Swimwear for children in Australia is more about protecting them from the sun’s harsh rays than about fashion. The new standard for children’s swimwear is full-body suits with UPF 50+ protection.
The days of wearing a board short or bikini are over. Sunburns are painful, and parents have learned this the hard way. Skin protection should begin at an early age.
The use of sun hats and rash vests is a must for parents.
9. Natural Disasters are Just Part of the Landscape
Families need to prepare for Australia’s diverse weather conditions. This includes cyclones and bushfires, as well as floods, droughts, and floods.
Parents must learn how to speak to their children honestly, but in a reassuring way. You don’t have to scare your children, but rather teach them to respect nature and be prepared.
Community spirit and resilience are also part of everyday life. This is one way Australian kids become resilient and tough.
10. A Bunnings Sausage is the Best Way to End a Tantrum
Bunnings, Australia’s favorite hardware store, is known not only for its nuts and bolts but also for its sausage sizzle.
Parents can use this as a parenting trick: a snag on a slice of bread will work wonders when their children are having tantrums during weekend errands. You may find yourself in line with construction workers, neighbors, and gardeners for the Bunnings sausage.
11. Rain is a Good Reason to Go Outside, Not to Stay Inside
Rain is often associated with indoor activities in many cultures, but in Australia, particularly in the summer, it allows kids to splash around and run in the rain.
Summer showers are usually warm and short, so kids can jump in puddles with their gumboots. Parents often view it as an enjoyable way to keep their children entertained.
Rain is not a sign of boredom. It’s a chance to explore and play.
12. In Many Places, Shoes are Optional, but School Uniforms are Not.
The casual attitude toward shoes is one of the most bizarre things I have observed. Kids and adults are often seen walking around barefoot in the neighborhood or to shops.
Don’t confuse this shoe policy with relaxed school rules. Uniforms are important. Nothing is more sacred than an oversized school cap that protects children from the sun. Forgetting it once could earn you a harsh note from your teacher.
No hat means no play. And Australian kids are happy to accept this rule.
13. “S” stands for “Suck it up, Buttercup”
Aussies are known for their tough parenting, and it’s no different with children. Children learn that while being cautious and not fearing is important, they shouldn’t let it rule their lives.
The classic phrase “Suck It Up, Buttercup” is often used by parents to encourage their children’s resilience and bravery. They teach them how to be safe and respect wildlife.
This is a firm approach that promotes self-confidence and independence.
14. Aussie Men Make the Best Superheroes and Villains
When you learn that some of the most well-known actors in the world are Australian, it’s impossible not to feel proud. Aussie men have been hailed as global icons for their strength, charisma, and charm.
These stars are idolized by kids, and they add a touch of Hollywood glamour to backyard Aussie adventures. This is a great way to remind kids that Aussie uncles and dads may be superheroes.
15. Field Hockey is What We Call “hockey”, not Ice Hockey
When you hear children talking about hockey in Australia, don’t think of ice and skates. In Australia, the word “hockey” is usually used to refer to field hockey.
Ice hockey is a rare sport and is mostly played by specialist clubs. The more common sport, played on synthetic or grass turf with sticks, is much more popular.
…and balls are ready. Just a warning: Australians may look at you as if you are crazy if they hear you talk about ice hockey.
Australian Parenting is a Unique Experience
In Australia, parenting is a mix of sunshine, sausages, and tough love, all wrapped up in a relaxed, community-minded atmosphere. It’s all about enjoying the outdoors, learning quirky traditions, and preparing kids for a fun, resilient life.
Parenting here will teach you how to enjoy the little things and roll with the changes.
What Australian Parenting Rules Would You Add?
Australia is a vast country with many different cultures. Every family brings their unique flavor to the mix. What is your favorite parenting tip or family tradition? You might have a phrase that you use every day to speak with your children, or perhaps a custom from your locality that has shaped your family’s life.
Let’s share our thoughts and stories about parenting in Australia.
