The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is nearing an end, with up to half a million people flocking to hear 450 performers from Australia and abroad.
Among this year's line-up were a number of Aussie newcomers, many from non-anglo backgrounds.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Matt Okine is of African descent, a point he refers to in his routine.
"I think audiences laugh at the differences between cultures in a positive way. They're not laughing because haha they're worse than us," said Mr Okine.
Veteran comedian Akmal Saleh admitted he once felt compelled early in his career to change his name to 'Peter', just to be accepted by a largely white audience.
Mr Saleh says in comedy, there should no sacred cows.
"If you are getting laughs then you're justified in what you're saying and doing. It's the most democratic process ever."
Matt Okine agrees, adding that if a joke on race issues hits the right note it can unite people from diverse cultures together in laughter.
"The only time when it gets bad or awkward or offensive is when 1) it's not funny and 2) it's out of malice," he said.
