The term "Ocker" is used both as a noun and adjective for an Australian who speaks and acts in an uncultured manner, using a broad Australian accent (or Strine).^[1] The typical ocker is "usually found in a blue singlet and rubber flip-flops with a tinnie in his hand propping up a bar."^[2] Richard Neville defined ockerism as being "about conviviality: comradeship with a touch of good-hearted sexism."^[2]

Ocker was recorded from 1916 as a nickname for anyone called 'Oscar'. The 1920s Australian comic strip Ginger Meggs contained a character called Oscar ('Ocker') Stevens. The ocker as an Australian stereotype did not appear until much later, and is strongly associated with Paul Hogan and a character of that name played by Ron Frazer in satirical television comedy series, The Mavis Bramston Show.^[3]

Politicians, including Prime Minister of Australia Kevin Rudd will often take on "ocker" cultural elements such as slang to appeal to various audiences.^[4]

[edit] References

[edit] See also

• Bogan
• Yobbo

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