Sport is at the heart of Australian culture. There are so many ways to enjoys sports here, from gathering at big sporting events like the Australian Open, to playing a casual game of soccer with friends. Sport is also a great way to connect with the community, make new friends and experience local culture.
Favourite Aussie sports
While you can play any type of sport in Australia, here are some of our national favourites.
AFL (Australian Football League)
Image credit: Study Adelaide
AFL (or “footy”) is uniquely Australian. Many historians have found strong links between the modern-day game and the First Peoples (Aboriginal) game Marngrook.
Played on huge oval fields, it’s fast, physical and a cultural icon. Every winter, stadiums fill up, especially in Melbourne which is where the now-national competition began. The energy, passion and tradition around AFL make it a part of the national identity.
Cricket
Image credit: Study Melbourne/ Cat Black
Australian summers mean it’s cricket season! Whether it’s a fun match in the park or the beach with your friends or watching the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), cricket brings people together. It’s as much about fun and friendship as it is about competition.
Rugby
ANZ stadium. Image credit: Destination NSW
Rugby league and rugby union are much loved sports, especially in New South Wales and Queensland. Nothing captures the excitement more than the State of Origin. This three-game series sees Queensland and New South Wales battle it out which creates a strong rivalry and a lot of fun for fans.
Swimming and surfing
Growing up in Australia, swimming and surfing are key parts of life thanks to the warm climate and many beaches. Australians often learn to swim from an early age and excel internationally with strong Olympic performances. Surfing is also very popular, with iconic surf beaches such as Bells Beach and Snapper Rocks. Taking a surf lesson when you’re in Australia is a must do!
Women in sport
Women’s sport has never been more celebrated in Australia. The rise of the Matildas inspired a new generation and attracted record crowds. From AFLW to cricket and rugby league, female athletes are breaking barriers and reshaping what sport looks like in Australia.
Study sport at world-leading universities
If you’re passionate about sport, Australia is a top study destination.
- The University of Queensland ranks 2nd in the world for sports-related subjects in the QS World University Rankings.
- Other Australian universities also feature strongly, offering world-class programs in sports science, management, and physiotherapy.
Learn from leading researchers, access cutting-edge facilities and prepare for global careers in sport. Head to our Course Search tool and make enquiries today.