Bogan facts for kids

The word bogan is a slang term used in Australia and New Zealand. It describes a person who often comes from a working class background. It can also describe someone whose way of speaking, clothing, attitude, and actions show a proud working-class style. Sometimes, the word can have a negative meaning. However, over the past few decades, being called a bogan has become more accepted and even a source of pride for some. There are many local names for similar groups of people.

What is a Bogan?

People often think of bogans as living in the outer parts of big cities. They are sometimes seen as being very proud of their country. They might have homemade tattoos, love classic rock music, and enjoy driving certain cars. A bogan attitude is often seen as honest and not trying to be something it's not.

Certain types of clothing are linked with bogans. These include flannel shirts, hoodies, Stubbies shorts, King Gee workwear, thongs (flip-flops), and Ugg boots. They also often wear jeans and black leggings. In the Australian state of Victoria, bogans might wear acid wash jeans, ugg boots, and band T-shirts. They might also have mullet-style haircuts. In the mid-1990s, New Zealand bogans often wore all black. This included black jeans and black woollen jerseys. Long fringes or long hair were also common.

Cars like the Holden Commodore and Ford Falcon are also popular among bogans.

Bogans usually do not copy the styles, hobbies, fashion, or language of the middle-class. Sometimes, other groups might look down on bogans. This can make life harder for people who are already facing challenges.

A Positive Meaning

The term bogan is now sometimes used to show pride in being a bit rough around the edges. In 2002, Michelle Griffin wrote that 'bogan' was no longer just an insult. Instead, it had become a way to connect with the 'Aussie' culture that many Australians are proud of. In the past, 'bogan' was a bad word. But now, many people are proud to be called a bogan.

The radio station Triple J even held a "National Bogan Day" on June 28, 2002. To celebrate, they played music from bands like Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, Rose Tattoo, and AC/DC.

Related pages

• Bogan Hunters

Images for kids

• 

  Melbourne street art showing a person often seen as a typical male bogan. He is shown with a meat pie in one hand. On his arm is a tattoo of the famous bushranger and outlaw Ned Kelly.