[2] Five subspecies are recognized: The Australasian figbird has a total length of 27.0–29.5 cm (10.6–11.6 in)[4] and a jizz comparable to that of other orioles.

The subspecies cucullatus, ashbyi and flaviventris are yellowish olive-green above, and bright yellow below (including the throat).

[7][4] Australasian figbirds make a large number of different short calls, and are also able to mimic the voices of other birds, for example parrots and other species of orioles.

[2] While largely a resident species (although the southern population may be migratory), it is nomadic in response to the availability of food.

[2] Unlike most orioles, Australasian figbirds are gregarious,[4] often forming flocks of 20 to 40 birds during the nonbreeding season, and even breeding in small, loose colonies.