What it means
A classic Aussie bit of praise you throw out when someone’s done well, done the decent thing, or had a proper crack. It can be warm and supportive, but with the right eyebrow and a bit of edge it also turns lightly sarcastic. Very common in Australia, and you’ll hear it in New Zealand too.
Usage examples
"You stayed back to help clean up after the barbie and didn’t whinge once. Good on ya, mate, that’s solid. Grab a cold one"
"Good on ya for finishing the whole run, I was knackered just watching from the cafe."
"You returned the wallet with all the cash still in it? Good on ya, mate, proper decent."
"You finally stood up to your boss and asked for the pay rise. Good on ya, mate, about time."
"He brought the shopping in without being asked. Good on ya, champion, miracles do happen."
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Where it comes from
It is good on you run together at full Aussie speed, the on doing the work of for. Saying good is upon you is an old way of wishing someone well, and the phrase stuck fast down under as the standard cheer for anyone who has done well or done right.
Other ways to say it
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