This reference work investigates the foundational elements of Australian national identity through the lens of its diverse folk traditions and cultural heritage. Graham Seal and Gwenda Beed Davey, both established scholars in the field of Australian studies, curate a comprehensive collection of entries that analyze how slang, oral histories, and material artifacts have shaped the country's character. The text provides a structured framework for understanding the intersection of indigenous and immigrant influences on the Australian cultural landscape.

Experts recognize this volume as a foundational reference for those studying Australian cultural history and sociology. Readers frequently note the academic rigor and breadth of the entries, which provide a clear overview of the complex factors contributing to the Australian national identity.