What It Means To Be Australian Poem by Gary Dodd

A profound title,
a worthy subject,
something to ponder,
a theme to embrace.

What it means
to be Australian,
is all about
identifying
who you are,
what you stand for,
what you believe,
and what you want.

Australians
are unique
in their outlook,
in their ideas,
in their way of life,

We stand
for everyone,
not just some.

We embrace
newcomers
as much
as old mates.

We tell it
as it is,
not
what you want to hear.

We believe
in giving everyone
a fair go.

We will stand
with the underdog,
and challenge anyone
to deny us
that privilege.

We will
open our hearts
and wallets
to a worthy cause.

We will help
anyone
without expecting
a reward.

We will
drink,
joke,
laugh,
at everyone
and anyone.

We will say
"G'Day"
to all
we meet.

That is me,
that is you,
we are Australian.

Gary Dodd
16 November 2006