On Afternoon Light #147 Georgina Downer meets with historian, lexicographer, and Director of the Australian National Dictionary Centre at ANU, Amanda Laugesen, to discuss on the evolution and cultural significance of the Australian accent. The two explore changes to the accent over time, from its stigmatisation in the early 20th century to its eventual acceptance and celebration; dissect debates of the 1930s and 40s about what constitutes an Australian accent; and examine the influence of education, elocution, and global media on our collective sound.
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