Ex- Pat Aussie Musings: The Story of Mateship and of having a Fair Go

‘Mateship’ is an endearing value and characteristic of the ‘Australian way' implicit in the nation’s character which embodies in a 'fair go' egalitarianism. The word 'mate' is used to describe friends, colleagues, even just another person with whom you have just begun speaking terms with. It is speculated that the origins of the word come from the German term "gemate" which means to share a meal at the same table.

Both ‘mateship’ and the giving of a ‘fair go’ tap into the secular creed of the country and evoke a spirit that extends to break barriers. Though its ideology is secular, it is in line with the soul construct of what leads to contentment overall.  To give someone a ‘fair go’ is part of the Australian vernacular  that has often been used to demand or protest in favor of fairness - to be fair to someone by giving them a fair go.  It leaves one with not being ousted by hardship or a demand of backing off from unreasonableness. It also gives support to the party that does not have an upperhand in the matter before them.  A basic request for leniency. Every person endures a battle and is subsequently entitled to a ‘fair go’ as a result.

What’s more is that there has been political discourse and consideration of the inclusion of the term "mateship" in the preamble of the Australian constitution. The proposed change never passed the Senate:  

Australians are free to be proud of their country and heritage, free to realise themselves as individuals, and free to pursue their hopes and ideals. We value excellence as well as fairness, independence as dearly as mateship.

The concept is traced back to early colonial times due to the exposure that convicts had found themselves in. Both men and women closely relied on each other for help. The shared experience, mutual respect and unconditional assistance gave rise to this. Though it has been traditionally used by men, it has also been donned by females in favor of the spirit. It carried through World War I and the Australian Goldrush.  The dynamic changed during that period which included the massive influx of migrants from around the world including Asia, Europe and the Americas. Thus, it can serve as a force to cut down prejudice in race or disparity in wealth.

More recently, during the Sydney siege at the Lindt cafe, mateship was extended in one tweet whereby being Muslim and in the face of terror can also be daunting.  A hashtag and a tweetstorm was borne out of goodwill when an Asian Australian woman pledged to walk in solidarity with another woman who removed her hijab following the news of the siege.  The #illridewithyou stood in contrast with the way in which Americans handled any post terror attack. The response was more measured and a fresh approach welcomed by Muslims across the globe and represented progress.

In the exploration of their similarities and differences such things as attitudes toward equality, approaches to leadership, conversational styles, decision making, and risk taking all give rise to the wanting of the  same opportunities in life. This affords with an education and healthcare systems that provide high quality, world class healthcare and education to everyone. It has shaped a workplace where a higher minimum wage can exist. The welfare system means that streets aren’t full of beggars and homeless people. All of the above-listed, in turn, reduces the crime rate. An immigration system that is skills-based requires higher paid labor. This means most ‘Aussies’ clean their own homes and tend their own gardens, keeping them grounded. Viewing people as mates, reduces suspicion and a pro-gun or violent attitude.  

Patriotism and flag worship serves as a distraction to neighborly needs and that is why Australians do not engage in this behavior.  It needs to be seen that quality of a mateship is an act of being a patriot instead. At the end of the day, everybody demands to be treated fairly and equally.  The concept of mateship and fair go have proven to be timeless and have upheld and will continue to do so. Mateship speaks to many Australians in a way that global political discourse has failed others. It has been able to identify itself for over the course of more than 200 years of white-settler history, farmers, soldiers, laborers,bankers, poets, politicians and feminists.  It is time that its significance spoke to the rest of the world.  It shows a capacity to work together and challenges individualism.  In all things equal, then those who are different are also less dangerous. There is no need for fear mongering as a result.