Murray published around 30 volumes of poetry and is often called Australia's Bush-bard. The academic David McCooey described Murray in 2002 as "a traditional poet whose work is radically original". His poetry is rich and diverse, while also exhibiting "an obvious unity and wholeness" based on "his consistent commitment to the ideals and values of what he sees as the real Australia". He is almost universally praised for his linguistic dexterity, poetic skill and humour. However, these same reviewers and critics tend to be more questioning when they start discussing his themes and subject matter.