Study guide
Australian values in the citizenship test
How the booklet explains freedom, respect, equality and lawful conduct. You must answer all five values questions correctly in the official test.
The 5/5 values rule
An overall score of 15 out of 20 is not enough by itself. To pass the official test, you must also answer all five Australian values questions correctly. A mock exam on this site applies both conditions.
Tap an idea to see how it works
Every person and organisation must obey Australian law. No person, religious rule or government official is above it. In a scenario question, an answer that excuses unlawful conduct because of status, belief or private agreement conflicts with this principle.
People may speak, express ideas, associate with lawful groups and follow a religion or no religion. These freedoms do not permit violence, threats, unlawful discrimination or conduct that breaks Australian law.
People are expected to respect the lawful choices, views and dignity of others, including when they disagree. Disputes should be addressed peacefully through discussion, democratic participation and lawful processes.
Men and women have equal rights, and people should have equal opportunity regardless of background. A fair go connects opportunity with ability, work and effort rather than inherited status or unlawful prejudice.
Mateship, volunteering and helping people in need are valued. Serious crime, child abuse, domestic or family violence and threats to community safety should be reported to the appropriate authorities, not ignored or handled through private retaliation.
Australian citizens pledge loyalty to Australia and its people and share its democratic beliefs, rights and liberties. Following Australian law remains part of that commitment, including when an Australian citizen is overseas.
How to answer a scenario question
- 01Identify the freedom or responsibility being tested.
- 02Remove answers that allow violence, coercion, discrimination or conduct outside Australian law.
- 03Prefer peaceful, lawful action that respects equal rights and the safety of other people.
- 04Check whether the question asks what is legal, what is valued or what a citizen must do. These are related, but not identical.
- 05Return to Part 4 of the official booklet if two options still seem possible.
Connect each value to a decision
The booklet connects “freedom, respect and equality” to concrete choices. Religious practice must comply with Australian law. Protest must be peaceful and lawful. Men and women have equal rights. Violence in relationships is never acceptable, and serious harm should be reported. Those boundaries help when the question describes a situation.