Aussie Oi! Chant Stuns New Citizen at Ceremony
A New Zealand woman has ignited a fiery online discussion after posting a video showing a surprising and raucous chant that formed a central part of her official Australian citizenship ceremony. Ivana Matisse, a FIFO mine worker, captured the moment organisers at her Brisbane ceremony this month led the crowd in the iconic call-and-response cheer of 'Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, oi, oi, oi'.
In the footage shared on her social media, Matisse can be heard gasping in apparent disbelief as the entire room enthusiastically joined in the chant. Alongside the video, she expressed her astonishment, writing: 'I'm convinced this is the most unserious country in the world because how was this a legitimate part of my citizenship ceremony?' Despite her initial shock, she participated in the chant and later affirmed that Australia was the 'best country in the world I'm so sure of it'.
Online Reaction: Pride Versus Cringe
The video clip quickly went viral, prompting a tense and divided debate among viewers over whether the chant was a heartwarming display of national pride or simply 'cringeworthy'. Critics were vocal in their disapproval. 'I'm Australian and I cringe every time I hear this chant,' one woman commented. Another viewer stated bluntly, 'This is embarrassing,' while a third added, 'Aussies have about 7-8 things they say on loop... Always sanctimonious and always cringeworthy.'
However, many others rallied to defend the tradition, arguing it was a light-hearted and unifying show of Aussie spirit. One supporter wrote, 'I don't know who started it and it's utterly cringe but I will 'Oi' with the best of them because it's who we are.' Expressing a sense of envy, another person said, 'My partner didn't get this at his citizenship ceremony and honestly I'm kinda disappointed.' In response to concerns that new citizens might think all Australians are 'bogans', one woman simply stated they would likely just be 'happy to live in this great country'.
The History and Official Stance on the Chant
This is not the first time the chant, which was originally adapted from a British rallying cry, has been a lightning rod for debate. Critics have frequently condemned it as overly nationalistic, while its defenders see it as a harmless expression of community. The cheer even drew global attention when former US President Barack Obama echoed it during a 2011 speech to service members at RAAF Base Darwin.
While the chant is a familiar sound at sporting events and public gatherings, its place in a formal citizenship ceremony was questioned. Officially, singing the 'Aussie, Aussie, Aussie' chant is not a required part of the proceedings. A spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs confirmed that their recommendation to local councils is that the national anthem should always be played. The department further advises that all attendees should be provided with the lyrics and invited to join in singing 'Advance Australia Fair'.
