Australia is known for its rich cultural diversity, and its last names or surnames reflect this diversity. In this article, we’ll delve into 100+ common Australian last names or surnames, each with its own unique meaning and significance. From indigenous Aboriginal names to those of European settlers and immigrants, Australian last names offer a glimpse into the country’s complex history and heritage.

 

 

Exploring Australian Last Names:

1. Adams

Adams is a common surname of English origin, meaning “son of Adam.” It is prevalent among Australians of British descent and has been passed down through generations, signifying familial ties and lineage.

2. Allen

Allen is an English surname derived from the given name “Alan,” meaning “little rock” or “harmony.” It is found among Australians with English, Scottish, or Irish ancestry, reflecting the migration and settlement of early European settlers.

3. Anderson

Anderson is a patronymic surname of Scottish origin, meaning “son of Andrew.” It is widespread among Australians with Scottish heritage and signifies familial connections to the given name Andrew, a popular name in Scotland.

4. Bailey

Bailey is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a bailiff or officer of the law. It is prevalent among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals involved in legal or administrative professions.

5. Baker

Baker is an occupational surname derived from the Old English word “bæcere,” meaning “baker.” It is common among Australians of English descent and may denote ancestral connections to individuals involved in baking or related trades.

6. Bell

Bell is a surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Middle English word “belle” or the Old French word “bel,” meaning “beautiful” or “fair.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may signify familial ties to individuals with a fair or beautiful appearance.

7. Bennett

Bennett is a patronymic surname of medieval English origin, meaning “son of Benne” or “son of Benedict.” It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Benne or Benedict.

8. Blackman

Blackman is a surname of English origin, denoting someone with dark or black hair, complexion, or clothing. It is common among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals with dark features or occupations associated with the color black.

9. Brown

Brown is a common surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word “brun,” meaning “brown” or “brunette.” It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may signify familial connections to individuals with brown hair, eyes, or complexion.

10. Butler

Butler is an occupational surname of medieval English and Irish origin, denoting a servant or attendant responsible for the wine cellar or butlery. It is widespread among Australians with English or Irish ancestry and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals employed as household servants.

11. Cameron

Cameron is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic word “cam sròn,” meaning “crooked nose” or “bent nose.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish heritage and may signify familial connections to individuals with a distinctive facial feature or geographical association with the Cameron clan in Scotland.

12. Campbell

Campbell is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the elements “cam,” meaning “crooked” or “bent,” and “béal,” meaning “mouth.” It is common among Australians with Scottish ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals associated with the Campbell clan in Scotland.

13. Carter

Carter is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a transporter of goods by cart or wagon. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral connections to individuals engaged in carting or transportation-related occupations.

14. Chapman

Chapman is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a merchant or trader. It is prevalent among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals engaged in commerce or business activities.

15. Clarke

Clarke is an occupational surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word “clerc,” meaning “clerk” or “scholar.” It is common among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral connections to individuals employed as clerks, scribes, or scholars.

16. Colling

Colling is a surname of English origin, possibly derived from the Old English word “coll,” meaning “coal.” It is found among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals associated with coal mining or the coal trade.

17. Cook

Cook is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a cook or culinary professional. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral connections to individuals engaged in cooking or related culinary professions.

18. Cooper

Cooper is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a maker or repairer of wooden vessels, particularly barrels and casks. It is common among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals involved in coopering or barrel-making trades.

19. Cox

Cox is a surname of English origin, possibly derived from the Old English word “cocc,” meaning “rooster” or “cox.” It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral connections to individuals associated with poultry farming or the raising of roosters.

20. Davies

Davies is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of David.” It is widespread among Australians with Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named David, a popular given name in Wales.

21. Edwards

Edwards is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of Edward.” It is common among Australians with Welsh heritage and may indicate familial ties to individuals named Edward, a popular given name in Wales and England.

22. Elliott

Elliott is a patronymic surname of Scottish origin, meaning “son of Elias” or “son of Elliot.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Elias or Elliot.

23. Ellis

Ellis is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of Ellis” or “son of Elias.” It is common among Australians with Welsh heritage and may indicate familial ties to individuals named Ellis or Elias.

24. Evans

Evans is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of Evan.” It is widespread among Australians with Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Evan, a common given name in Wales.

25. Fisher

Fisher is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a fisherman or someone involved in the fishing industry. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in fishing or maritime occupations.

26. Gibson

Gibson is a patronymic surname of Scottish origin, meaning “son of Gib” or “son of Gilbert.” It is common among Australians with Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Gib or Gilbert.

27. Graham

Graham is a Scottish surname derived from the Old English word “grāfham,” meaning “gravel homestead” or “gravelly place.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish heritage and may indicate familial ties to individuals associated with places named Graham or Grahamstown.

28. Gray

Gray is a surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word “græg” or the Scottish Gaelic word “riabhach,” meaning “gray” or “grey-haired.” It is common among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may signify familial connections to individuals with gray hair or a grayish complexion.

29. Green

Green is a common surname of English origin, denoting someone who lived by or worked near a village green or a grassy area. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals associated with agriculture, nature, or the color green.

30. Hall

Hall is a surname of English origin, denoting someone who lived or worked in a hall or large residence. It is widespread among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate familial connections to individuals associated with grand residences, manors, or halls.

31. Hamilton

Hamilton is a Scottish surname derived from the place name Hamilton in South Lanarkshire, Scotland. It signifies familial connections to individuals associated with the Hamilton clan or the town of Hamilton in Scotland.

32. Harris

Harris is a patronymic surname of English and Welsh origin, meaning “son of Harry.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Welsh heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Harry, a diminutive of Henry or Harold.

33. Harrison

Harrison is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Harry.” It is common among Australians with English ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Harry, a diminutive of Henry or Harold.

 

 

34. Harvey

Harvey is a surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Breton personal name “Aeruiu” or “Haerviu,” meaning “battle-worthy” or “blazing.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may signify familial connections to individuals associated with bravery or battle.

35. Hemsworth

Hemsworth is a locational surname of English origin, derived from the place name Hemsworth in West Yorkshire, England. It signifies familial connections to individuals associated with the town or locality of Hemsworth.

36. Hill

Hill is a common surname of English origin, denoting someone who lived on or near a hill or raised ground. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals associated with elevated landscapes or topographical features.

37. Hughes

Hughes is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of Hugh.” It is prevalent among Australians with Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Hugh, a common given name in Wales and England.

38. Irwin

Irwin is a surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Eoforwine” or the Scottish Gaelic word “iarunn,” meaning “iron.” It is associated with the late conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin, known as the “Crocodile Hunter.”

39. Jackman

Jackman is a surname of English origin, derived from the medieval given name “Jack,” a diminutive of John. It is associated with Australian actor Hugh Jackman, known for his roles in Hollywood films.

40. Jackson

Jackson is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Jack.” It is common among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Jack, a diminutive of John.

41. James

James is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of James.” It is widespread among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named James, a common given name in English-speaking countries.

42. Johnson

Johnson is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of John.” It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial ties to individuals named John, one of the most common given names in English-speaking countries.

43. Jones

Jones is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of John.” It is widespread among Australians with Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named John, a common given name in Wales and England.

44. Kelly

Kelly is a surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Ó Ceallaigh, meaning “descendant of Ceallach” or “bright-headed.” It is associated with the legendary Australian outlaw Ned Kelly and is prevalent among Australians with Irish heritage.

45. Kennedy

Kennedy is a surname of Irish and Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic Ó Cinnéide, meaning “descendant of Cinneide” or “helmet-headed.” It is widespread among Australians with Irish or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Cinneide.

46. Kidman

Kidman is a surname of Australian origin, associated with the prominent Australian actress Nicole Kidman. It may denote familial connections to the Kidman family or individuals with the surname Kidman.

47. King

King is a common surname of English origin, denoting someone who behaved in a kingly manner or worked in the service of a king. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals of noble or royal descent.

48. Knight

Knight is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a mounted soldier or servant. It is prevalent among Australians with English ancestry and may signify ancestral connections to individuals engaged in knighthood or chivalry.

49. Kumar

Kumar is a surname of Indian origin, commonly found among Australians with Indian heritage. It signifies familial connections to individuals with the given name Kumar, which means “prince” or “youth” in Sanskrit.

50. Lee

Lee is a surname of English and Chinese origin, among others. It is common among Australians with diverse ancestry and may signify familial connections to individuals with the surname Lee or Li, which has various meanings in different cultures.

51. Lewis

Lewis is a surname of English and Welsh origin, derived from the Old English personal name “Lēof,” meaning “dear” or “beloved.” It is widespread among Australians with English or Welsh heritage and may signify familial connections to individuals named Leof or Lewis.

52. Marshall

Marshall is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a person in charge of the horses of a household or an officer of the law. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals employed as housekeepers or law officers.

53. Martin

Martin is a patronymic surname of English, French, or Spanish origin, meaning “son of Martin.” It is common among Australians with European ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Martin, a popular given name in Western countries.

54. Mason

Mason is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a stoneworker or someone who worked with bricks or stones. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in masonry or construction trades.

55. Matthews

Matthews is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Matthew.” It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Matthew, a common given name in English-speaking countries.

56. McDonald

McDonald is a patronymic surname of Scottish and Irish origin, meaning “son of Donald.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish or Irish ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Donald, a common given name in Scotland and Ireland.

57. Miller

Miller is an occupational surname of English and Scottish origin, denoting a person who owned or worked in a mill. It is common among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may indicate ancestral connections to individuals involved in milling or milling-related occupations.

58. Mills

Mills is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a person who owned or worked in a mill. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral ties to individuals engaged in milling or milling-related trades.

59. Minogue

Minogue is a surname of Irish origin, associated with the Australian singer and actress Kylie Minogue. It may denote familial connections to the Minogue family or individuals with the surname Minogue.

60. Mitchell

Mitchell is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of Michael.” It is widespread among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Michael, a common given name in English-speaking countries.

61. Moore

Moore is a surname of English and Irish origin, derived from the Old English word “mor,” meaning “moor” or “marsh.” It is common among Australians with English or Irish heritage and may indicate familial ties to individuals associated with moorland or marshy areas.

62. Morgan

Morgan is a surname of Welsh origin, derived from the Old Welsh personal name “Morcant,” meaning “sea circle” or “sea chief.” It is widespread among Australians with Welsh ancestry and may signify familial connections to individuals named Morcant or Morgan.

63. Morris

Morris is a patronymic surname of English and Welsh origin, meaning “son of Maurice” or “son of Morris.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Welsh heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Maurice or Morris.

64. Murphy

Murphy is a patronymic surname of Irish origin, meaning “descendant of Murchadh,” which means “sea warrior” in Gaelic. It is widespread among Australians with Irish ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Murchadh or Murphy.

65. Murray

Murray is a surname of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the region of Moray in Scotland or the Gaelic word “muireb,” meaning “sea warrior” or “lord.” It is common among Australians with Scottish or Irish heritage and may indicate familial connections to the region of Moray or individuals associated with the sea.

66. Nguyen

Nguyen is a Vietnamese surname, commonly found among Australians with Vietnamese heritage. It signifies familial connections to individuals with the Nguyen surname, one of the most common surnames in Vietnam.

 

 

67. O’Brien

O’Brien is a patronymic surname of Irish origin, meaning “descendant of Brian.” It is prevalent among Australians with Irish ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Brian, a common given name in Ireland.

68. Parker

Parker is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a park keeper or someone who worked in a park. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in park-keeping or park-related occupations.

69. Pearce

Pearce is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Piers” or “son of Peter.” It is common among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Piers or Peter.

70. Phillips

Phillips is a patronymic surname of English and Welsh origin, meaning “son of Philip.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Welsh ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Philip, a common given name in English-speaking countries.

71. Price

Price is a surname of Welsh origin, derived from the Welsh word “ap Rhys,” meaning “son of Rhys.” It is common among Australians with Welsh heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Rhys or Price.

72. Reid

Reid is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word “hrēod,” meaning “red” or “ruddy.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals with red or ruddy complexions.

73. Richards

Richards is a patronymic surname of English and Welsh origin, meaning “son of Richard.” It is common among Australians with English or Welsh heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Richard, a popular given name in England and Wales.

74. Richardson

Richardson is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Richard.” It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial ties to individuals named Richard, a common given name in English-speaking countries.

75. Roberts

Roberts is a patronymic surname of English and Welsh origin, meaning “son of Robert.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Robert, a popular given name in English-speaking countries.

76. Robertson

Robertson is a patronymic surname of Scottish origin, meaning “son of Robert.” It is common among Australians with Scottish heritage and signifies familial ties to individuals named Robert, a common given name in Scotland.

77. Robinson

Robinson is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Robin” or “son of Robert.” It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Robin or Robert.

78. Rogers

Rogers is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Roger.” It is prevalent among Australians with English ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Roger, a common given name in England.

79. Ross

Ross is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the region of Ross in Scotland or the Gaelic word “ros,” meaning “promontory” or “headland.” It is common among Australians with Scottish heritage and may indicate familial connections to the region of Ross or individuals associated with headlands.

80. Russell

Russell is a surname of French and Old English origin, meaning “little red one” or “red-haired.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may signify familial ties to individuals with red hair or a reddish complexion.

81. Ryan

Ryan is a patronymic surname of Irish origin, meaning “descendant of Rian.” It is common among Australians with Irish heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Rian or Ryan.

82. Scott

Scott is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old English word “scotti,” meaning “Gael” or “Irishman.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish ancestry and may indicate familial ties to individuals of Scottish descent or origin.

83. Shaw

Shaw is a surname of English and Scottish origin, denoting someone who lived by a small wood or grove. It is common among Australians with English or Scottish heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals associated with wooded areas.

84. Simpson

Simpson is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of Sim,” a medieval given name derived from Simon. It is widespread among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Simon or Sim.

85. Smith

Smith is a common occupational surname of English origin, denoting a worker in metal, particularly iron. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in blacksmithing or metalworking trades.

86. Stevens

Stevens is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of Steven” or “son of Stephen.” It is common among Australians with English ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Steven or Stephen.

87. Stewart

Stewart is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the occupational title “steward,” denoting a manager or supervisor. It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish heritage and may indicate familial ties to individuals engaged in stewardship or managerial roles.

88. Taylor

Taylor is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a tailor or someone who worked in the clothing trade. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may signify ancestral ties to individuals engaged in tailoring or garment-making professions.

89. Thomas

Thomas is a patronymic surname of Welsh origin, meaning “son of Thomas.” It is prevalent among Australians with Welsh ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Thomas, a common given name in Wales and England.

90. Thompson

Thompson is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of Thom,” a medieval given name derived from Thomas. It is common among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Thom or Thomas.

91. Thomson

Thomson is a patronymic surname of Scottish origin, meaning “son of Thom” or “son of Thomas.” It is prevalent among Australians with Scottish heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named Thom or Thomas.

92. Tran

Tran is a Vietnamese surname, commonly found among Australians with Vietnamese heritage. It signifies familial connections to individuals with the Tran surname, one of the most common surnames in Vietnam.

93. Turner

Turner is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a person who worked as a turner or lathe worker. It is common among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in woodworking or lathe operation.

94. Walker

Walker is an occupational surname of English and Scottish origin, denoting a person who walked or tended sheep. It is prevalent among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and may signify familial connections to individuals engaged in shepherding or walking-related professions.

95. Walsh

Walsh is a surname of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Ó Breathnach, meaning “descendant of Breathnach” or “Welshman.” It is common among Australians with Irish heritage and may signify familial connections to individuals of Welsh descent or origin.

96. Ward

Ward is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a watchman or guardian. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in warding or guarding occupations.

97. Watson

Watson is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of Walter” or “son of Watt.” It is prevalent among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial connections to individuals named Walter or Watt.

98. Webb

Webb is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a weaver or someone involved in weaving. It is common among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in weaving or textile-related trades.

99. White

White is a common surname of English origin, denoting someone with fair or pale complexion or hair. It is widespread among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals with fair features or occupations associated with the color white.

100. Williams

Williams is a patronymic surname of English origin, meaning “son of William.” It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and signifies familial connections to individuals named William, one of the most common given names in English-speaking countries.

101. Wilson

Wilson is a patronymic surname of English and Scottish origin, meaning “son of Will” or “son of William.” It is common among Australians with English or Scottish ancestry and signifies familial ties to individuals named Will or William.

102. Wood

Wood is a common surname of English origin, denoting someone who lived in or near a wood or forest. It is prevalent among Australians with English heritage and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals associated with woodland areas.

103. Wright

Wright is an occupational surname of English origin, denoting a maker or worker, particularly a craftsman or builder. It is common among Australians with English ancestry and may indicate ancestral ties to individuals engaged in various trades or professions.

104. Young

Young is a common surname of English and Scottish origin, denoting someone who was young or youthful, or the son of a person named Young. It is widespread among Australians with English or Scottish heritage and may signify familial connections to individuals associated with youthfulness or the surname Young.

 

 

The Significance of Australian Last Names:

Australian last names often carry historical, occupational, or geographical significance, reflecting the cultural and social backgrounds of the individuals who bear them. They serve as important identifiers of family heritage and lineage, connecting individuals to their ancestors and roots.

Cultural Influences on Australian Last Names:

Australian last names bear the influence of various cultures and languages, reflecting the country’s history of immigration and settlement. From indigenous names rooted in Aboriginal languages to surnames of British, Irish, Scottish, and European origin brought by early settlers, Australian last names form a diverse tapestry of cultural heritage.

Regional Variations in Australian Last Names:

The distribution of Australian last names can vary based on regional factors such as settlement patterns, historical migration trends, and indigenous languages. For example, certain surnames may be more prevalent in rural areas with strong agricultural traditions, while others may be concentrated in urban centers with diverse immigrant populations.

The Meaning Behind Australian Last Names:

Many Australian last names have meaningful origins, often reflecting occupations, physical characteristics, or geographic features. Understanding the meanings behind these names can provide insight into the lives and experiences of individuals and families throughout Australian history.

Conclusion:

Australian last names are a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse population. From indigenous names with deep roots in Aboriginal languages to surnames brought by British, Irish, Scottish, and European settlers, these names tell stories of migration, adaptation, and identity. Explore the meanings and significance behind 100+ common Australian last names to gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s multicultural tapestry. Learn about more surnames, names like exotic girl names, twin names, triplets names, Nigerian boys names, etc from parentology.co.

FAQs About Australian Last Names:

• What are the most common Australian last names?

  • Smith, Jones, Williams, Brown, and Wilson are among the most common Australian last names.

• Are Australian last names influenced by indigenous languages?

  • Yes, some Australian last names have indigenous origins and reflect Aboriginal languages and cultures.

• Do Australian last names vary by region?

  • Yes, Australian last names can vary regionally based on settlement patterns and immigration history.

• Are there any famous Australians with unique last names?

  • Yes, many famous Australians have unique last names, such as Hemsworth, Minogue, and Jackman.

• How have Australian last names evolved?

  • Australian last names have evolved with waves of migration and cultural exchange, reflecting the country’s diverse population.