6 Most Popular Baby Names in Australia in 2023

“What’s in a name?”

– William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet 

Well, there is a lot in a name. Believe it or not, our names play a very important role in our lives. Names shape our personality. It is through our names that people form their first opinion about us. Many astrologers and numerologists believe that our names can even form our destiny.

Naturally, naming a baby is a momentous task. A baby has no say in determining their own name. Yet, they are the ones who have to carry their names throughout their lives. Obviously, you will wish to bestow your baby with the best name out there. The question is, how do you do that? Do you select a name that is common or one that is rare? How do you make sure that your baby does not get teased because of their name? Do you go for a name that suits your baby’s cuteness, or do you opt for one that will suit their personality once they mature?

There are millions of names out there. Hence, there are a lot of options to choose from. To make things easier for you, I am here with a list of the most popular baby names in Australia this year.

Let us look at the top three baby girl names.

Charlotte

Origin: French

Meaning: Petite, Free Man

The name Charlotte dates back as far as at least the 14^th century. It is the female version of Charles. Charlotte has been a consistently popular name for over seven hundred years. Ever since the reign of Charles the Great, the founder of the Holy Roman Empire, Charlotte has been the go-to name amongst the royals and nobles. Many great queens and princesses have been bestowed with the name. It is a classic name with a positive meaning. The name connotes freedom, a great quality to influence a child’s life. Girls named Charlotte are often given charming nicknames like Lottie, Charlie, and Lotta. Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III of England is one of the most renowned bearers of the name, and who does not know Charlotte Bronte, the author of Jane Eyre? So, if you are looking for a royal name with creative vibes, Charlotte is a great fit.

Amelia

Origin: German

Meaning: Industrious, Work, Striving, Fertility  

Amelia originates from Amal, which means hard work. It is a name that will inspire your baby girl to work hard and strive to fulfill all her dreams. Amelia has been in vogue since the 18^th century. It is a trendy name that has a vintage and a modern vibe. Girls named Amelia can be nicknamed, Amy, Ames, Lia, Mel, Mia, and Millie. Many great people have been the bearers of the name Amelia. They include Amelia Earheart, an American pilot, and Amelia Boynton Robinson, an American activist.

Isla

Origin: Spanish, Scottish

Meaning: Island

The name Isla connotes tranquillity. It brings to mind tropical temperatures and blissful beaches. It is a modern name with an old-fashioned charm. Isla originates from the masculine names Islay and Ilay. In Scotland, there is one island and two rivers of the same name. Isla is gradually growing in popularity. Isla Fisher, a Scottish actress, is one of the famous bearers of the name.

Now, let us have a look at the three baby boy names that topped the charts in Australia this year.

Oliver

Origin: Latin, Norse

Meaning: Ancestor’s Descendants, Olive, Olive Tree

Oliver is one of the most popular names. People have been naming their boys Oliver for centuries now. It was introduced in England by the Normans. Since then, it has been widely used in England, France, the United States, and of course Australia. After Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist hit the literary scene, the name became all the more trendy. Olives bring to mind peace, dignity, beauty, and fruitfulness. This makes Oliver a regal name for men. Ollie is an adorable nickname for Oliver. Oliver Riedel, a musician, Oliver Stone, a director, and Oliver Hudson, an actor, are some renowned bearers of the name.

Noah

Origin: Hebrew

Meaning: Repose, Pleasant

Noah comes from the Hebrew word nukhu, which means rest.  It is also associated with the Hebrew word nahum, meaning to comfort. The name Noah has a biblical origin. We have all heard the story of Noah’s Ark. Noah was chosen by God to be the only righteous man of his time. God tasked him with building an Ark and filling it with a pair of all the species of animals. Noah, his family, and the animals in the Ark survived the Great Flood. The name Noah connotes wisdom. People named Noah are usually effortlessly cool and easy-going. This vintage name is a very popular name all over the world. Noah Webster, an American lexicographer created the American Spelling Book. He is also the one who came up with America’s first dictionary called the American Dictionary of the English Language. Noah Anderson is an Australian rules football player.

Leo

Origin: Greek, Latin

Meaning: Lion-hearted, Brave

Leo is a strong name. It is Latin for lion. Lions are the kings of the jungle. Naturally, the name Leo has a regal vibe. From an astrological standpoint, it is one of the twelve zodiac signs. People born under the sign are considered to be compassionate and natural leaders. Though it is an ancient name, its popularity has seldom ebbed. There have been thirteen popes, four saints, and uncountable royals with the name Leo or a variation of it. People named Leo are usually charismatic, brave, and possess great leadership skills. Some of the most famous Leos are Leo Tolstoy, the famous Russian author, Leonardo da Vinci, the most renowned artist in the world, and of course Leonardo DiCaprio, one of the most stellar actors of today.

Conclusion

“Names have power.”
― Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief  

Indeed, names have power. After all, they play a significant role in your child’s life. Naming a child is no easy feat. It is one of the most important decisions in life. With so many beautiful names out there, it is a daunting task as well. Hope this name helps you narrow your choices.

Do comment to let me know which of these names grab your fancy.