Democratic Beliefs, Rights and Liberties

What kind of political system does Australia have?

✓ A parliamentary democracy

In Australia, who holds the power to govern?

✓ The people, through elected representatives

At what age must Australian citizens enrol and vote in federal elections?

✓ 18 years and over

Is voting compulsory for Australian citizens at federal elections?

✓ Yes, eligible citizens must vote

Which of these is a responsibility of Australian citizens?

✓ Voting in elections

Which of these is a responsibility that may be required of Australian citizens?

✓ Serving on a jury if called

Which is a privilege available to Australian citizens?

✓ Applying for an Australian passport

Which of these can Australian citizens do that non-citizens generally cannot?

✓ Vote in federal elections and stand for parliament

Which freedom allows Australians to peacefully gather and protest?

✓ Freedom of assembly and association

What is 'freedom of speech' in Australia?

✓ The freedom to express opinions within the law

Which of these is a fundamental freedom enjoyed in Australia?

✓ Freedom of religion

What does 'freedom of movement' mean in Australia?

✓ People can travel freely within Australia and leave and return

How are members of the Australian parliament chosen?

✓ They are elected by the people

What is a secret ballot?

✓ Voting is private and no one can see how you voted

Which body conducts federal elections in Australia?

✓ The Australian Electoral Commission

What is one responsibility of all people in Australia, citizens and non-citizens alike?

✓ To obey the laws of Australia

Why is it important that Australians can criticise the government openly?

✓ It is part of a free and democratic society

What does 'equality of opportunity' mean in Australia?

✓ Everyone has a fair chance to succeed

In Australia, can people form and join political parties freely?

✓ Yes, people may form or join political parties

Which of these reflects the rule of law in Australia?

✓ No one is above the law, including those in power

What right do citizens have if they are accused of a crime?

✓ A fair trial and to be considered innocent until proven guilty

What does it mean that Australia has a 'free press'?

✓ The media can report and express views without government control

Which is an example of taking part in Australian democracy?

✓ Voting in an election or referendum

What is a referendum in Australia?

✓ A national vote to change the Constitution

Which of these is a way Australians can have a say in how the country is run?

✓ Contacting their elected representatives

Are people in Australia free to join a trade union?

✓ Yes, through freedom of association

Does freedom of religion in Australia protect people who choose to have no religion?

✓ Yes, people are free to have a religion or none

What is the purpose of compulsory voting in Australia?

✓ To ensure most citizens take part in choosing their government

Which statement about rights and responsibilities is correct?

✓ Citizens have both rights and responsibilities

Can an Australian citizen ask for help from an Australian official while overseas?

✓ Yes, citizens can seek consular assistance overseas

Which of these is a privilege of Australian citizenship?

✓ Standing for election to parliament

Can people in Australia practise their culture and use their own language?

✓ Yes, while respecting the law and others

What happens if an eligible citizen does not vote in a federal election without a valid reason?

✓ They may have to pay a fine

Which value underpins Australia's democracy?

✓ Respect for the equal worth and freedom of all people

Which responsibility may be required of an Australian citizen in a time of need?

✓ To defend Australia should the need arise

Which is a privilege of being an Australian citizen?

✓ Registering children born overseas as Australian citizens by descent

What is contained in the Australian Citizenship Pledge?

✓ A commitment to Australia, its people, democratic beliefs, rights and laws

Which is an example of 'mutual respect' in Australian society?

✓ Treating people of all backgrounds and beliefs with consideration

Can Australian citizens apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service?

✓ Yes, this is a privilege of citizenship

What does it mean to live in a 'free and democratic society'?

✓ People have rights and freedoms and choose their government

Is peaceful protest allowed in Australia?

✓ Yes, people may protest peacefully and lawfully

What is one way new citizens promise to participate in Australian society?

✓ By sharing democratic beliefs and obeying the law

Which statement about Australian citizenship is correct?

✓ It is a shared identity and a common bond uniting all Australians