Common Aussie Slang – fair go

If I had to choose one expression that best described Australian society, ‘fair go’ would probably be it. In simple terms, fair go means ‘a reasonable chance; a fair deal’ (Australian National University). In Australia, we strongly believe that every citizen has the right to be treated fairly. Our egalitarian way of thinking is why many Australians will speak to their employer in the same way they’d speak to their workmates. Generally speaking, Aussies won’t be deferential to people just because they’re in a position of authority.

The expression ‘fair go’ is often used as an exclamation when you want someone to act in a reasonable way. For example, imagine you’re at the supermarket and you notice a customer filling up their trolley with numerous multi-roll packets of T.P. (toilet paper). You might remark:
“Fair go, leave some for the rest of us!”
However, it can also be used to describe someone who treats people fairly.
A: “So, what’s your boss like?”

B: “She’s great. She’s really friendly and gives everyone a fair go.”

 

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Glossary

reasonable – based on or using good judgement and therefore fair and practical

fairly – in a way that is right or reasonable and treats people equally

egalitarian – believing that all people are equally important and should have the same rights and opportunities in life

workmate – a person who works in the same place as you, especially one who you are friendly with

generally speaking – used to say that something is usually true, or is true in most situations

deferential – polite and showing respect

in a position of authority [idiom] – a person who has official power to make important decisions

exclamation – something you say or shout suddenly because of surprise, fear, pleasure, annoyance, etc.

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