Where “Slip Slop Slap” Comes From
“Slip! Slop! Slap!” was a public health campaign launched by Cancer Council Victoria in 1981 to reduce skin cancer. The three actions were to slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat. It was fronted by a cartoon seagull named Sid.
A later revival added “seek” shade and “slide” on sunglasses, turning it into “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide”.
“Remember: slip, slop, slap.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in schools, ads and beach safety talks.
In Real Life
Slip Slop Slap is one of the most successful health slogans in Australian history. Generations of children learnt the jingle, and the catchy rhythm made it stick. It’s now so well known that people use the phrase as a friendly reminder before heading outside. Beaches, schools and sports clubs still use its advice to protect kids from the harsh sun.
Quick Questions
Who was Sid the Seagull?
The cartoon mascot of the original campaign, who danced and sang the jingle.
What was added later?
Seek shade and slide on sunglasses, making Slip Slop Slap Seek Slide.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: SLIP SLOP SLAP.
In conversation:
- Slip, slop, slap before you go out.
- Mum always said slip, slop, slap.
- Don’t forget to slop on the sunscreen.
Good to know: Since the original slogan, advice has grown to include seeking shade and wearing sunglasses. Australia has very high rates of skin cancer, so sun protection matters.
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