The Rule of Law
Australia’s laws apply to everyone in the country, whatever their background or culture, and everyone is protected by them. Under the Rule of Law no person or group is above the law. The guide puts the practical test simply: you follow the law even when nobody is watching.
Parliamentary democracy
Laws are made by parliaments that the people elect, so citizens take part in how the country is run. Voting is compulsory in Australia, which shows how much weight is placed on taking part in elections.
Freedom of speech and freedom of association
People can express their ideas freely, provided they stay within the law, and the media has the same freedom as individuals. Peaceful protest against the government is allowed and is part of democracy — but a protest must not injure anyone or damage property, and promoting violence is never acceptable.
You are free to join or leave any lawful group, and nobody can be forced to join an organisation or to leave one.
Freedom of religion
Australia has no official national religion, and the government treats citizens equally whatever they believe. Religious practice must stay within Australian law, and religious laws have no legal standing: where they differ from Australian law, Australian law applies. Polygamy and forced marriage are both illegal.
Equality under the law
Everyone has equal rights regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race, or national or ethnic origin. Men and women have equal rights, including equal access to education and work, and each makes their own choices about personal matters such as marriage and religion. Violence against a spouse or partner is a criminal offence.
A fair go
Australians believe everyone deserves a “fair go”, with no limits set by class. What people achieve should come from their hard work and talent, and jobs should go to the person with the best skills and experience — not on the basis of gender, wealth or ethnicity.
Mutual respect and tolerance
Respecting others means respecting their freedom, dignity, opinions and choices, and listening even when you disagree. Violence of any kind, verbal or physical, is illegal, and racism has no place in Australia — including online and at sporting events.
Mateship, contribution and English
Australians value mateship and helping each other in hard times, and there is a strong tradition of volunteering. Everyone is expected to contribute to the community and, where they can, to support themselves and their families.
English is the national language and a unifying part of Australian society. Applicants whose first language is not English undertake to make reasonable efforts to learn it.
Keeping society safe, and loyalty
If you suspect someone may be planning a serious crime, report it to the authorities as soon as possible; if you know a child is being abused, report it to the police. In the citizenship pledge, new citizens pledge loyalty to Australia and its people.