Australian Values and the Citizenship Test

Why all five values questions must be correct

The citizenship test has a unique requirement: you must score at least 75% overall (15 out of 20 questions), and you must answer all five Australian-values questions correctly. This is not an average or a weighted score. A single wrong answer on a values question means you do not pass the test, regardless of how well you did on the other 15 questions. This dual requirement exists because Australia considers these values non-negotiable. They are the foundation of the legal system, the democratic process, and social cohesion. By becoming a citizen, you are explicitly committing to respecting and upholding these values in your life and your interactions with others.

The five Australian values

The five core Australian values are defined in Part 4 of "Our Common Bond" and must be understood and endorsed by every person applying for citizenship.

Respect for the equal worth, dignity and freedom of the individual means that every person in Australia, regardless of their background, age, gender, disability, or any other characteristic, has the same inherent value and worth. This value underlies the protection of human rights and individual freedoms in Australia. People are not judged on the basis of their status or circumstances; each person has the right to be treated with respect and to pursue their own life goals within the law.

Equality of men and women is a specific application of the broader principle of individual equality. In Australia, men and women have equal rights under the law and equal opportunities in education, employment, and public life. This value protects women from discrimination, violence, and unfair treatment. Equality of men and women is woven throughout Australian law and is essential to the functioning of Australian society.

Freedom of religion and freedom of speech and association means that in Australia, the government does not establish or favour any religion. People are free to follow any religion they choose, or no religion at all, and this freedom is protected by law. Similarly, people are free to express their opinions, to meet and associate with others, and to form groups based on shared interests or beliefs — all without government interference. These freedoms are limited only by other laws (for example, laws against violence or discrimination) and apply equally to all people.

Equality of opportunity and a fair go reflects the Australian belief that people should be judged and rewarded based on their ability and effort, not on their family background or other circumstances. This value calls for a society based on mutual respect, tolerance, compassion and equality. A "fair go" is deeply embedded in Australian culture; it means that everyone has the chance to succeed and that society supports people in reaching their potential. This value also encompasses support for those who are vulnerable or disadvantaged.

Peaceful, democratic resolution of disagreements means that Australia resolves conflicts and makes decisions through democratic processes, debate and voting — never through violence. This value is fundamental to the rule of law and stable society. It also explicitly includes the principle that violence against any person, including family members, is against the law and against Australian values. Violence in any form, including domestic violence, is never acceptable in Australia.

How values are tested

On the citizenship test, values questions typically ask you to identify behaviour or statements that align with or contradict Australian values. For example, a question might present a scenario and ask whether it reflects the value of equality, or it might ask you to identify which statement correctly describes one of the five values.

To answer these questions correctly, you need to understand not just the words of each value but also how they apply in real life. For instance, understanding "equality of men and women" means knowing that women have equal rights to work, vote, own property, and participate in all areas of public and private life without discrimination. Understanding "peaceful resolution of disagreements" includes recognising that violence — including against a family member — is illegal and contrary to Australian values.

The test also assesses your understanding that these values are not negotiable. You cannot pass the test by saying you understand the values intellectually but reject them personally. By becoming an Australian citizen, you are affirming that you will respect and uphold these values.

Values in Australian law and society

These five values are more than abstract ideals; they are embedded in Australian law and institutions. Laws against discrimination protect equality. Laws against assault and family violence protect the safety and dignity of individuals. Laws protecting freedom of speech, association, and religion are found in the Australian Constitution and in state and federal legislation. The courts uphold these values by applying the rule of law fairly to all people.

In daily life, Australian values translate into expectations of respectful behaviour. Workplace discrimination laws, equal-pay requirements, protections for parents of all genders, and laws against domestic violence all reflect these values. Schools teach respect for diversity and equal opportunity. Community organisations are built on the principles of mutual respect and fair treatment.

How to prepare for the values questions

To prepare for the values questions, read Part 4 of "Our Common Bond" carefully and consider real-world examples of how each value applies. Think about situations where one of the values might be in question. For example: if someone is denied a job because of their religion, is that consistent with Australian values? If a wife is controlled by her husband, does that respect equality and individual freedom? If a government arrests someone for speaking against it, does that respect freedom of speech?

Use the free practice test available on the Department of Home Affairs website. It includes sample values questions so you can see the format and the types of scenarios you might encounter. Pay attention to any practice questions you get wrong and review the relevant section of "Our Common Bond" to understand why that answer was incorrect.

Do I have to answer all five values questions correctly?

Yes. You must answer all five Australian-values questions correctly to pass the citizenship test. A single wrong answer on a values question means you do not pass, regardless of your score on other questions.

What if I score 95% but get one values question wrong?

You do not pass. The pass rule requires two conditions: at least 75% overall (15 of 20) AND all five values questions correct. If you fail either condition, you do not pass.

Can I retake the test if I fail a values question?

Yes, you can rebook and sit the test again. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake it. Contact the Department of Home Affairs for information about retake conditions and fees.

Are there any exceptions to the values questions?

No. There are no exceptions or alternatives to the values questions. All applicants aged 18 to 59 must sit the test and must answer these questions correctly to pass.

How should I study for the values questions?

Read Part 4 of "Our Common Bond" carefully and work through the practice test on the Department of Home Affairs website. Consider how each value applies to real-life situations. Think about what behaviour is consistent with or against each value.

What if I don't agree with one of these values?

By applying for Australian citizenship, you are affirming that you will respect and uphold these values. The test is assessing whether you understand them and commit to living by them. If you cannot commit to these values, citizenship by conferral may not be appropriate for you. Confirm current eligibility requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.