If there’s one thing Aussies know how to do, it’s throwing a good party. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a beachside bonfire, or a cozy pub gathering, drinking games are often the heart of the celebration. Australian drinking games combine humor, creativity, and a love for mateship, making them an essential part of the social scene.
But let’s not forget: while drinking games are about fun and laughter, it’s always important to drink responsibly. So, grab a drink (or a non-alcoholic option), and let’s dive into the world of Australian drinking games!
What Makes Australian Drinking Games Unique?
Australian drinking games have a personality all their own. They often reflect the laid-back, fun-loving nature of Aussie culture. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Aussie Humor: These games are packed with cheeky, self-deprecating humor.
- Outdoor Settings: With plenty of sunshine and beaches, many games are designed for outdoor play.
- Inclusivity: Whether you’re a drinker or not, Aussie games often have room for everyone to join in.
It’s this unique blend of fun and friendship that makes Australian drinking games unforgettable.
Top 10 Australian Drinking Games
Ready to bring some Aussie flair to your next gathering? Here’s a quick rundown of the top drinking games you’ll want to try:
- Goon of Fortune
- Two-Up (Drinking Edition)
- Beer Pong
- Flip Cup
- Never Have I Ever: Aussie Edition
- King’s Cup
- Drink While You Think
- Arvo Olympics
- Beach Pong
- DIY Aussie Trivia
Let’s take a closer look at a few fan favorites!
Goon of Fortune: The Iconic Aussie Game
If you’ve ever seen a Hills Hoist clothesline, you’ve witnessed the birthplace of Goon of Fortune. This quirky game involves attaching a bag of cheap wine (affectionately called “goon”) to the clothesline. Spin the line, and wherever the goon stops, that person drinks!
How to Play
- Secure the goon bag to the clothesline.
- Spin the line and let fate decide the drinker.
- Add house rules for extra hilarity, like singing a song or telling a joke before drinking.
It’s simple, unpredictable, and quintessentially Australian.
Two-Up Drinking Version
Two-Up is a traditional Aussie gambling game often played on ANZAC Day. The drinking version brings the same excitement to parties. Players toss two coins, and bets are made on whether both coins will land heads or tails.
How to Play
- Designate a coin tosser (or “Spinner”).
- Players bet on the outcome of the toss.
- Winners assign drinks to others.
This game is perfect for bringing a touch of Aussie tradition to your gathering.
Beer Pong: The Party Staple
An international favorite, Beer Pong has made its mark in Australia, too. This classic involves tossing ping pong balls into cups of beer arranged in a triangular formation. If you make a shot, the opposing team drinks the cup your ball lands in.
Aussie Twist: Substitute beer for other local beverages like Bundaberg Rum mixers to give the game a uniquely Australian flavor.
Flip Cup: Fast-Paced Team Fun
Flip Cup is a relay-style game that tests speed and coordination. Players line up on each side of a table, drink from their cups, and then attempt to flip them by flicking the rim with their fingers. The team that flips all their cups first wins!
Pro Tip: Add a timer for an extra challenge and keep the pace lively.
Never Have I Ever: Aussie Edition
This conversational classic gets a distinctly Aussie twist when players incorporate Australian slang and experiences. For example:
- "Never have I ever seen a kangaroo in the wild."
-
"Never have I ever shouted a round at the pub."
It’s a fun way to learn surprising facts about your mates while sharing a laugh.
King’s Cup: The Ultimate Card Game
King’s Cup (or Circle of Death) is a drinking game that revolves around drawing cards, each with specific rules. Arrange cards in a circle around a large cup, and each card drawn adds an element of surprise.
Example Rules:
- Ace: Everyone drinks.
-
King: Pour a portion of your drink into the central “King’s Cup.”
The game ends when the last King is drawn, and the unlucky person drinks the contents of the cup.
Drink While You Think
This game combines quick wit and drinking. Players must name something in a chosen category (e.g., animals, movies, or Australian landmarks) while sipping their drink until they answer. Then, the next person takes over.
Challenge Round: For added difficulty, choose categories tied to Australian culture, like “types of Aussie wildlife” or “famous Aussies.”
Arvo Olympics: The Backyard Drinking Challenge
The Arvo Olympics (short for “afternoon Olympics”) is a series of mini drinking challenges, often played in someone’s backyard. Think of it as a fun mix of sports day and party games, with plenty of Aussie humor thrown in.
Ideas for Mini-Games
- Beer Relay: A team race where players drink and pass a “baton.”
- Flip Cup Battle: Teams compete in rounds of Flip Cup.
- Thong Toss: Toss an Aussie thong (flip-flop) as far as possible—you have to drink if your throw falls short.
It’s a fantastic way to keep everyone entertained for hours.
DIY Aussie Trivia
Turn your next gathering into a quiz night with a DIY trivia game focusing on Australian culture, sports, and history. Prepare questions like:
- “What’s the capital of Tasmania?”
-
“Name three Aussie slang terms for ‘drunk.’”
How to Play: Split players into teams. Incorrect answers result in drinking penalties, while correct answers earn points.
Drinking Games with a Beach Twist
Australia’s beautiful beaches make them a perfect backdrop for drinking games. Here are a few ways to adapt classics for the sand:
- Beach Pong: Replace the table with sandcastles as cup holders.
- Drunk Volleyball: Take a sip every time you miss a serve.
- Sand Flip Cup: Play Flip Cup with cups buried slightly in the sand.
Just remember to keep it environmentally friendly—leave no trash behind!
Safety Tips for Drinking Games
While fun is the name of the game, safety is just as important. Here are some tips to keep things in check:
- Pace Yourself: Encourage breaks between rounds.
- Hydrate: Keep water on hand for everyone.
- Be Inclusive: Offer non-alcoholic options and alternative challenges.
- Know Your Limits: No game is worth overdoing it.
Responsible partying ensures everyone has a great time without regret.
Raise Your Glass to Unforgettable Aussie Fun!
Australian drinking games celebrate creativity, camaraderie, and good vibes. Whether you’re playing Goon of Fortune, hosting an Arvo Olympics, or inventing your own DIY game, the goal is always the same: to have fun with your mates. So, grab your crew, plan a few games, and let the good times roll—just don’t forget to keep it responsible!
For more global party fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Drinking Games Around the Globe and discover how different cultures celebrate with a drink in hand!
FAQs
1. What’s the easiest Australian drinking game to play?
Goon of Fortune is simple and requires minimal setup, making it perfect for any party.
2. Can Australian drinking games be adapted for non-drinkers?
Yes! Many games can include non-drinkers with alternative penalties or point-based rewards.
3. How can I host a beach-friendly drinking game event?
Bring portable props like plastic cups and balls, and choose games that work well on sand, like Beach Pong.
4. What makes Australian drinking games unique compared to other cultures?
Their focus on humor, outdoor fun, and inclusivity sets them apart.
5. What’s the best way to ensure safety during drinking games?
Pace the games, provide plenty of water, remind participants to know their limits, and encourage everyone to take breaks between rounds to prevent overconsumption.
