Australian values
Learn the shared values at the heart of Australian life. All five values questions matter.
You need 15/20 overall + all 5 values questions correct. Even 19/20 is a fail if you miss a values question.
Five questions. Five correct answers.
The real test includes five Australian values questions from Part 4. You must answer all five correctly and get at least 15 out of 20 overall. Even a score of 19 out of 20 is a fail if the incorrect answer is a values question.
Australian values are based on freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity. Citizenship means applying these principles in everyday life, not only remembering them for a test.
The Rule of Law and democracy
Everyone in Australia is equal before the law, regardless of background or culture. No person or group is above the law. Obey the law even when nobody is watching.
In Australia's parliamentary democracy, people elect representatives who make laws. The government's power comes from the people. Compulsory voting reflects the importance of participating in democratic decisions.
Freedom, with respect for others
People can express ideas, discuss politics, criticise the government and peacefully protest within the law. Respect other people's lawful speech, even when you disagree. Promoting violence, making unlawful false allegations or encouraging others to break the law is not acceptable.
People may voluntarily join or leave lawful organisations. Nobody should be forced to join a political party, union, religious organisation or other group. Protests must be peaceful and must not harm people or property.
Australia has no official religion. Everyone may choose their beliefs. Australian law takes priority over religious rules; religious practices cannot excuse breaking the law. Forced marriage and polygamy are illegal.
Equal rights and a fair go
Everyone has equal rights regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race or origin. Same-sex couples may marry. Men and women have equal access to education, employment and political participation.
People make their own decisions about personal matters such as marriage and religion, without threats or intimidation. Either spouse may seek a divorce. Violence against a partner is never acceptable.
A fair go means an equal opportunity to succeed. Jobs should be awarded on skills and experience rather than ethnicity, wealth or gender. A woman with stronger qualifications may be chosen ahead of a man.
Mutual respect and tolerance
Listen to other people's opinions and respect their dignity, even when their beliefs differ from your own. Disagreements should be resolved peacefully, without violence or intimidation. Support lawful police action and obey lawful police requests.
Racism has no place in Australia, including racial abuse at sporting events or online. Respect and tolerance apply in person and on the internet.
Contributing and showing compassion
People are expected to contribute to the community and try to support themselves and their families when able. Mateship means helping others in times of need: checking on an older neighbour, supporting a sick friend or volunteering locally.
English is Australia's national language and helps people participate in education, employment and community life. Citizenship applicants undertake to make reasonable efforts to learn English if it is not their native language.
Keeping our community safe
If you suspect someone is planning a serious crime, report it to Australian authorities as soon as possible. If you know or suspect a child is being abused, report it to police.
Online abuse is not acceptable. It can include stalking, racial abuse and sharing intimate images without consent; many forms are illegal. Everyone has a responsibility to help keep the community safe.
Loyalty to Australia
The citizenship pledge expresses loyalty to Australia and its people, respect for democratic beliefs, rights and liberties, and a promise to uphold and obey the law. The words 'under God' are optional.
Dual or multiple citizenship is possible if the other countries' laws allow it. Australian citizens must still follow Australian laws. Some Australian laws also apply overseas. Shared obligations include protecting Australia's interests, security and community harmony.