Aussie's iconic message to trick or treaters resurfaces ahead of Halloween

We're edging ever so close to October 31 and that means people will likely be getting their Halloween costumes ready for trick or treating.

While the annual event sees children in their millions roam their neighbourhood to ask for lollies in America, the tradition is not as massive in Australia.

It seems like Aussies bemoan Halloween as an unwanted US export and some have really made their feelings clear about getting a knock at the door from a bunch of kids asking for free food.

One Aussie homeowner went viral a few years ago for sticking a message to their front door to let passing children know to skip their house.

Reddit

"This is Australia not America. Fuck off with your Halloween shit you little c**ts," the message said.

I mean, pretty brutal for kids just trying to have a bit of fun.

It was reposted onto Reddit ahead of the spooky season and people are laughing all over again.

One user wrote: "When I was a kid, I remember hearing my neighbour yelling out a similar sentiment on Halloween night. And then seeing a pack of ghosts and vampires and skeletons legging it up the street."

Another added: "I'm in my early thirties and distinctly remember being bullied by some little rat at school because my family didn't have any lollies for him after his dad boosted him past our locked gate. Lots of empathy for whoever wrote the note as a result."

Some people have suggested that trick or treating should be something fun for the kids to do if they want.

Roman Lacheev / Alamy Stock Photo

"In my neighbourhood we have a rule...if you are participating in Halloween, put decorations out," an Aussie wrote on the Reddit thread.

"The kids will only go to houses with decorations, and leave all other houses alone. I don't participate personally, but don't have a problem with others enjoying it."

Another Reddit user did some sleuthing and found that Halloween has been a part of Australian culture for much longer than most people think.

They said: "Newspaper reports of Halloween parties in Australia as far back as the mid 1800s - before Australia was even Australia. The Geelong Advertiser lists it in its calendar as far back as 1847."

While Halloween might have been a staple in Australian culture for decades, the notion of trick or treating seems to be a modern influence from America.