Anatomical variation is slight in the Mugilidae except in the details of the mouth structures. The scales, fin rays, adipose eyelid, and stomach caecae are all useful if due regard is paid to alterations with size and age. Thirty-eight genera (excluding fossils) have been named. Of these, 13 are recognized here as valid. Seventeen species belonging to nine genera are recorded, illustrated, and fully described from Australian waters. Keys to the genera and to the Australian species are included.