Australian values: the part you can’t get wrong
Quick answer
Updated Based on Our Common Bond
Why it matters
Why does 5 out of 5 matter so much?
Most of the test only needs 75%. Values questions are different: they are pass-or-fail. The test checks that new citizens understand and are committed to the values that unite Australians.
Ways to learn Australian values
Values challenge and your accuracy
Values challenge
Can you get 5 out of 5?
Five random values questions. Like the real test, anything less than 5/5 is not a pass.
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The values
Every Australian value, in plain English
Summarised from Part 4 of Our Common Bond. For more detail, read the Australian values study notes.
01
Commitment to the Rule of Law
Everyone is equal before the law and no person or group is above it. Obey the law at all times, even when no one is watching.
Example: A company director and a cleaner who break the same law go through the same legal process.
02
Parliamentary democracy
Laws are made by parliaments that citizens elect. Government power comes from the people, and voting is compulsory.
Example: If you disagree with a law, you can contact your representative or vote differently at the next election.
03
Freedom of speech
Say and write what you think and protest peacefully, within the law. Promoting violence against anyone is never acceptable.
Example: You can criticise a government decision in a letter to a newspaper, but not urge people to attack a group.
04
Freedom of association
Join or leave any legal group, such as a party, union or club. No one can force you to join or to leave.
Example: Your employer cannot make you join a political party.
05
Freedom of religion
Follow any religion or none. There is no official religion, and Australian law comes first where they differ.
Example: Forced marriage and polygamy are illegal even if a tradition allows them.
06
Equality of all people under the law
Equal rights regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race or origin. Men and women are equal.
Example: A woman can be hired ahead of a man if she has better qualifications and skills.
07
Equality of opportunity and a ‘fair go’
Everyone gets an equal chance to succeed. Success should come from hard work and talent, not class or wealth.
Example: A job should go to the person with the best skills and experience.
08
Mutual respect and tolerance
Respect others’ dignity and choices and disagree peacefully. Violence and racism are unacceptable.
Example: Neighbours with opposite political views can argue calmly and stay respectful.
09
Making a contribution and mateship
Take part in the community, support yourself when you can, and help others in need.
Example: Taking a meal to an elderly neighbour or volunteering for a local charity.
10
English as the national language
English unites the community and helps people study, work and take part in society.
Example: Applicants undertake to make reasonable efforts to learn English if it is not their first language.
11
Helping to keep society safe
Report suspected serious crime to authorities and child abuse to the police. Many forms of online abuse are illegal.
Example: If you suspect someone is planning a serious crime, report it as soon as possible.
12
Loyalty to Australia
Citizens pledge loyalty to Australia. Dual citizens in Australia must follow all Australian laws.
Example: Sharing official government secrets on social media would undermine Australia’s interests.
FAQ
Values questions: FAQ
How many Australian values questions are on the citizenship test?
5 of the 20 questions are about Australian values. You must answer all 5 correctly to pass.
Can I pass with 19 out of 20 if I miss a values question?
No. You need at least 15/20 overall and 5/5 on values. Missing any values question is a fail, whatever your total.
What are Australian values based on?
Freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity. They include the Rule of Law, parliamentary democracy, freedoms of speech, association and religion, equality under the law, a fair go, and mutual respect and tolerance.
How do I choose the right answer on a values question?
Pick the answer that respects the law and other people’s rights. Freedoms always apply within the law, violence is never acceptable, and Australian law comes before religious or cultural rules.