Down Under

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For other uses, see Down Under (disambiguation).

The term '"Down Under"' is a colloquialism referring to Australia and occasionally New Zealand. It locates Australia as "The land Down Under" because it lies totally within the southern hemisphere.

Despite the term's widespread international usage, it has been less commonly or rarely used by Australians themselves. The persistence of the media's use of the term has led to its wider embrace and usage. The Men at Work song "Down Under" has become an instantly recognisable, patriotic rallying song - even though the writer of the song, Colin Hay, is Scottish. Australia's most famous boxing champion, Kostya Tszyu, was also nicknamed "The Thunder From Down Under". There is also a reference to 'Down Under' in the British sitcom Open All Hours, namely a series three episode named "The Man from Down Under".

According to Roger Ebert, "No film set in Australia is allowed to use the word Australia in its title where "Down Under" is an acceptable alternative. For example, we don't get The Rescuers in Australia or Quigley in Australia."

"Down Under" is also attributed as the inspiration for the underwear brand Gilly Hicks, from the internationally recognised American lifestyle brand and company Abercrombie & Fitch.

[edit] See also

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