Part 4: Australian Values (Essential Test Requirement)
CRITICAL TEST REQUIREMENT: To pass the Australian citizenship test, applicants must score at least 75% overall, and must answer 100% (all 5) of the Australian Values questions correctly!
The Core Australian Values
Australian society is built upon shared democratic values that unite people from diverse backgrounds:
1. Commitment to the Rule of Law:
- Everyone is subject to the law; no religious or customary rule supersedes Australian law.
- Laws are made democratically through parliament, not enforced by intimidation or private factions.
2. Parliamentary Democracy and Peaceful Change:
- Citizens resolve disagreements through debate, democratic elections, and the judicial system, never through violence.
3. Equality of Men and Women:
- Women and men have identical legal rights, civic standing, and opportunities in Australia.
- Domestic violence, forced marriage, and female genital mutilation are serious crimes punishable by imprisonment.
4. Equality of Opportunity and "A Fair Go":
- Every individual deserves the opportunity to pursue their potential regardless of background, wealth, or ethnicity.
- Australians value hard work and fairness rather than inherited social privilege or class.
5. Mutual Respect, Freedom, and Tolerance:
- Respecting the right of other individuals to hold different opinions, lifestyle choices, and religious faiths.
- Racism, religious hatred, and vilification are contrary to Australian law and values.
6. Compassion for Those in Need:
- Helping those less fortunate through volunteerism, charitable giving, and community support in times of crisis (e.g., bushfires, floods).
7. English as the National Language:
- English is Australia's national language and the common bond that unites our multicultural nation, essential for social cohesion, employment, and civic participation.