Australian Values for the Citizenship Test: Complete Guide

Know the essentials

Australian Values Test Facts

Australian values form one of the four testable areas in the official citizenship test resource.

Australian values questions

5/5

Values questions required correct

Total test questions

75%

Overall mark required

What are Australian values?

Australian values are principles that help describe Australia's democratic society and the way people are expected to live together. The official citizenship test assesses an understanding and commitment to Australian values based on freedom, respect and equality.

The official material also discusses the rule of law, parliamentary democracy, equality of opportunity, mutual respect, tolerance, compassion and the importance of English as a unifying element of Australian society.

Important test rule

You must answer all 5 Australian values questions correctly

The citizenship test has 20 multiple-choice questions. Five questions assess Australian values. To pass, you must answer all five values questions correctly and achieve an overall mark of at least 15 out of 20.

5/5

Values questions

Study the key concepts

Australian Values You Should Understand

Use these explanations as a study aid, then review the official Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond resource before taking the test.

Freedom and Dignity of the Individual

Australian society values the freedom and dignity of each individual. People are expected to respect the rights, choices and lawful freedoms of others.

Every person should be treated with dignity and respect.
People have important freedoms protected by Australian law.
Individual freedoms are exercised within the law and alongside respect for other people.

Freedom of Religion, Speech and Association

Australia values freedom of religion, freedom of speech and freedom of association. These freedoms allow people to hold beliefs, express lawful opinions and participate in legal organisations.

People are free to follow a religion or choose not to follow one.
People can express their ideas and opinions within the law.
People can join or leave lawful organisations and associations.
The freedoms of other people must also be respected.

Commitment to the Rule of Law

The rule of law means that Australian laws apply to everyone. No person or group is above the law, and everyone is expected to obey Australian laws.

Everyone is equal in relation to the law.
Australian laws apply regardless of a person's background or position.
People are expected to obey the law even when no one is watching.
Courts and legal systems help maintain a peaceful and orderly society.

Parliamentary Democracy

Australia is a parliamentary democracy. Australian citizens participate in how the country is governed by voting for representatives in parliament.

Laws are determined by parliaments elected by the people.
Citizens have a role in Australia's democratic system.
People can participate in elections and choose representatives.
Political and social change should occur through democratic and peaceful processes.

Equality of Opportunity and a Fair Go

Australian society values equality of opportunity and a 'fair go'. People should have the opportunity to pursue their goals regardless of characteristics such as gender, race, age, disability, religion or background.

Men and women have equal rights under Australian law.
People should have equality of opportunity.
Discrimination based on protected characteristics is addressed by Australian law.
A 'fair go' includes mutual respect, tolerance and compassion for people in need.

Mutual Respect and Tolerance

Respecting other people means recognising their freedom, dignity, opinions and choices. Australians are expected to handle disagreements peacefully.

People may have different opinions and beliefs.
Disagreement should be handled peacefully.
Violence is not an acceptable way to resolve disagreements.
People should respect the lawful freedoms and dignity of others.

English and Community Participation

The English language is recognised as an important unifying element of Australian society. Community participation and helping others are also important aspects of Australian life.

English is the national language of Australia.
Learning English can help people participate in Australian society.
People are encouraged to contribute positively to their communities.
Compassion and helping people in need are part of the values described in the official material.

How to prepare for Australian values questions

Start with the official Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond resource. Home Affairs states that the citizenship test questions are based on this resource.

Before practising, review the Australian citizenship test format and passing score and read the Australian citizenship test guide to understand the test requirements and preparation process.

Pay particular attention to the meaning of freedom, respect, equality, the rule of law and parliamentary democracy. Do not rely only on memorising individual practice questions; make sure you understand the underlying concepts.

After studying the official material, use practice questions and timed mock tests to check your understanding and identify topics that need further review.

Read the official Our Common Bond resource

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This page is an independent study aid and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian Government or the Department of Home Affairs. For the latest official information and test requirements, always check the official Our Common Bond resource.