Australian English pronunciation into the 21st century

Australian English is traditionally considered to be the form of English spoken by people who are born in Australia or who immigrate at an early age and whose peer network consists of Australian English speakers. Such a simple definition implies that Australian English is a single form, which all native-born Australians will attain and exhibit. This paper reviews segmental aspects of Australian English pronunciation today and discusses the inadequacies of the traditional definition. In addition, some current theoretical issues are highlighted and suggestions are made about the creation of a new model for conceptualising Australian English in the twenty-first century.19 page(s