Australian Values Questions: How to Get 5/5 on the Citizenship Test

Every Australian citizenship test includes five questions about Australian values. You must answer all five correctly to pass.

This is not a suggestion. Missing even one values question means you fail the entire test, regardless of your overall score.

This guide explains each value in detail, shows how questions appear, and gives you practical strategies to achieve the 5/5 score you need. To help you prepare for these values questions, you can use the Australian citizenship practice test, which closely mirrors the format and content of the real exam. There is a range of resources and practice tests available, including options in a range of different languages, to support your preparation. Using official resources and taking practice tests can significantly improve your chances of passing.

Why Australian Values Questions Are Critical

The Australian citizenship test has 20 multiple-choice questions based on the “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond” booklet. Five of these questions focus specifically on Australian values.

Only applicants who meet the eligibility requirements can sit the Australian citizenship test.

To pass the citizenship test, you must meet two requirements:

• Answer at least 75% of all questions correctly (15 out of 20)

• Answer all 5 Australian values questions correctly

Both conditions must be met. The Department of Home Affairs designed this rule to ensure that every new Australian citizen understands and accepts the values that support Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties.

Pass/Fail Examples

The second example surprises many candidates. Scoring 19 out of 20 seems excellent, but if that one wrong answer is a values question, you fail.

Why Does This Rule Exist?

Australian values are the foundation of Australian society and Australia’s democratic beliefs. The government considers these values essential for community harmony and participation in democratic life.

General knowledge questions test what you know about Australian history, the Australian Constitution, and the Australian Parliament. Values questions are designed to ensure new citizens understand Australia's democratic beliefs and Australia's system of government. These values are central to the Commonwealth of Australia and its democratic framework, underpinning the rights and responsibilities of all citizens.

Important reassurance: Failing the citizenship test does not affect your visa status. You can sit the test again after preparing more thoroughly. However, careful study of the values section will help you succeed on your next attempt.

Ready to test your understanding? Try our Australian values practice quiz before reading further to see where you need to focus your study.

What Are the 5 Australian Values in the Citizenship Test?

All values questions come from Part 4 of the “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond” booklet, titled “Australian values.”

The five Australian values tested in the citizenship test are:

1. Respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual

2. Equality of men and women

3. Rule of law and parliamentary democracy

4. Freedom of religion and freedom of speech (within the law)

5. Tolerance, “fair go”, mutual respect and compassion for those in need

Law Australian values include the rule of law, equality before the law, and respect for democratic principles as fundamental aspects of Australia's legal and social framework.

Test questions often use statements about Australian values, national symbols, and the national anthem to assess your understanding of Australia's core principles and civic knowledge.

Summary Table

These values reflect Australia’s democratic beliefs and are explained fully in the Common Bond booklet. Some test questions from other sections about democratic beliefs, rights and liberties, and the government and the law also connect to these values.

The Five Australian Values You Must Master

This section examines each value in detail. For every value, you will find a clear definition, real-life examples, and information about how questions may appear in the test.

The Australian Government provides helpful resources and guidebooks to support applicants in preparing for the citizenship test.

English is recognized as the national language of Australia, and learning English is essential for integration and equal opportunity in Australian society.

Mateship is a core Australian value, emphasizing loyalty, friendship, and support for one another in Australian culture.

The examples here are designed to help you understand the values. Real test questions are different and always based on the official test booklet.

Respect for the Freedom and Dignity of the Individual

This value means treating every person as worthy of respect. Every individual has basic freedoms protected by Australian law.

Definition

Freedom in Australia includes the right to think, speak, move, and associate with others, all within the law. You can choose your job, your friends, your clothing, and your beliefs.

Dignity means treating people as human beings with value. No person is property. No one can be treated as less than human.

Key elements of this value:

• Personal freedom to make your own choices within the law

• Right to be safe from violence and abuse

• Protection from slavery and forced labour

• Right to privacy and family life within the law

Real-Life Scenarios

Workplace: A colleague is being bullied because of their accent. Respecting freedom and dignity means refusing to participate, supporting the person, and reporting the behaviour to a manager or HR.

Public space: You respect another person’s personal space and do not touch them without consent. Physical contact without permission violates a person’s dignity.

Family: Physical punishment and domestic violence are against the law in Australia, even inside your own home. Every person, including children and spouses, has the right to safety.

Online: Sharing private photos or personal information about someone without their permission violates their dignity and may be illegal.

How It Appears in Test Questions

Questions about this value are usually straightforward multiple-choice items about what is legal or acceptable in Australia.

Common question patterns:

• Domestic violence is illegal, whether the victim is male or female

• No one can force another person to marry

• No person has the right to control where another adult goes or to take their documents

Practice-style example:

In Australia, is it acceptable for a husband to hit his wife if she disobeys him?

• A) Yes, if she does something wrong

• B) Yes, but only once

• C) No, it is always against the law

Correct answer: C – Domestic violence is a crime in Australia, regardless of the circumstances.

Equality of Men and Women

In Australia, women and men have the same legal rights and responsibilities in public and private life.

Definition

Gender equality means men and women have the same rights, the same opportunities, and the same protection under the law.

Key points:

• Equal pay for equal work under Australian workplace laws

• Equal right to vote and stand for the Australian Parliament

• Equal access to education and training

• Equal right to choose work, clothing, friends and activities within the law

No cultural or religious belief can be used as an excuse to break equality laws. Australian law applies to everyone.

Real-Life Scenarios

Employment: Both men and women can work as police officers, judges, doctors, or members of the Australian Defence Force. Employers cannot refuse to hire someone because of their gender.

Family: Both parents may work outside the home or care for children. Neither partner can force the other to stay home or give up their job. Decisions are made together.

Community: Women and men can both speak at community meetings, stand for local council, and participate in the Australian community as equals.

Education: Daughters and sons are both encouraged to complete school and consider university or trade training. Education is equally available to all.

How It Appears in Test Questions

Correct answers always show equal rights for both genders. Wrong answers restrict women’s freedom or suggest that men and women have different legal rights.

Common themes:

• Domestic violence is a crime against both men and women

• Women and men both have the right to vote and be elected

• Both genders can work in any job for which they are qualified

Practice-style example:

Which statement is correct about Australian law?

• A) Women must ask their husband’s permission to work

• B) Only men can be elected to Parliament

• C) Women and men have equal rights to work and be elected

Correct answer: C – The Australian Parliament includes both men and women, and both have equal legal rights.

Rule of Law and Parliamentary Democracy

This value connects directly to the sections of the Common Bond booklet about Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties. Australia’s system of government developed from British traditions and the Commonwealth structure, shaping its democratic principles and parliamentary system. The Commonwealth of Australia was formed by the union of states and territories, influenced by the political system of Great Britain.

Definition

Rule of law means everyone must obey Australian law. This includes ordinary citizens, police, the Prime Minister, and Members of Parliament. No one is above the law.

Parliamentary democracy means Australian citizens choose their representatives in free and fair elections. The Australian Government must follow the law and can be voted out by the people.

Important points:

• No one is above the law, including government leaders

• Courts are independent and decide if laws have been broken

• Changes to leaders happen through elections, not violence

• Voting is compulsory for adult Australian citizens in federal and state or territory elections

Real-Life Scenarios

Traffic law: Everyone can get a fine for speeding, including ministers and famous people. The law applies equally.

Election day: You go to a polling place, wait in the queue, and cast a secret vote. No one can intimidate you or tell you how to vote.

Protest: People may organise peaceful protests, but they must follow police directions and obey the law. Violence is never acceptable.

Court decisions: If a court makes a decision in your case, you must accept it, even if you disagree. You can appeal through legal processes, but not through violence or threats.

How It Appears in Test Questions

Values questions about law and democracy often overlap with content from other parts of the test booklet.

Common patterns:

• Nobody is above the law in Australia

• Australians choose their government through elections

• Changes to the Australian Constitution happen through referendum, not violence

• The Prime Minister and Parliament are subject to the law

Practice-style example:

If someone disagrees with a law in Australia, what should they do?

• A) Ignore the law if they believe it is unfair

• B) Work to change it through legal and democratic processes

• C) Use force to make the government change it

Correct answer: B – In Australia, change happens through voting, peaceful protest, and democratic processes, not violence.

Freedom of Religion and Speech (Within the Law)

Australia has no official national religion. The Australian Government is secular, meaning it does not favour one religion over another.

Definition

Freedom of religion means people may follow any religion, or no religion at all, within Australian law. The government does not tell people what to believe.

Freedom of speech means people may express opinions about politics, religion, and society. This includes criticising the government or the Prime Minister. However, this freedom has legal limits.

Limits on these freedoms:

• Cannot encourage violence or terrorism

• Cannot seriously harm or threaten other people

• Cannot force others to follow a religion

• Cannot break general laws and claim religion as an excuse

Real-Life Scenarios

Religion: In many Australian suburbs, you will find churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues near each other. All are protected by law.

Personal choice: A person who chooses not to participate in religious activities is protected from discrimination. No one can be forced to attend religious services.

Speech: At a barbecue or community event, you can discuss politics and disagree with government policies. This is normal in Australia.

Limit example: If someone calls for violence against a group of people, police may intervene. This is not protected free speech.

How It Appears in Test Questions

Common question themes:

• Australia has no official religion

• The government does not tell people what religion to follow

• People can peacefully practise their religion and criticise the government

• Options promoting violence or forced religion are always incorrect

Practice-style example:

Which statement about religion in Australia is correct?

• A) Everyone must follow the Christian religion

• B) People are free to follow any religion or no religion

• C) Religious laws are above Australian law

Correct answer: B – Australia protects freedom of religion, and no religion is compulsory.

Tolerance, Fair Go, and Helping Those in Need

This value connects to everyday Australian ideas like “fair go” and “mateship.” It is about giving everyone a reasonable chance and supporting people who are struggling.

Definition

Tolerance means accepting that people have different cultures, beliefs, and ways of life. You do not have to agree with everyone, but you must treat them with respect and follow the law.

Fair go means giving everyone a reasonable chance to succeed. No one should be unfairly disadvantaged or discriminated against.

Helping those in need means being willing to support people facing difficulties. This happens through charities, volunteering, and taxes that fund services like Medicare and Centrelink.

Behaviours showing this value:

• Not discriminating because of race, gender, religion, disability, or age

• Standing up when someone is bullied because of their background

• Following fair processes for jobs, school places, and services

• Supporting public services through taxes

Real-Life Scenarios

Queuing: Waiting your turn in line at the supermarket, bus stop, or government office, even when you are busy. Pushing in is seen as unfair.

Workplace: Hiring based on skills and experience, not on friendship, family connections, or religion.

Community: Joining a volunteer group, helping at a school canteen, or donating to a charity event.

Neighbourhood: Being patient with people who speak limited English. Speaking clearly instead of shouting or becoming frustrated.

How It Appears in Test Questions

Values questions often ask which option shows fairness, tolerance, or support for others.

Common patterns:

• Questions about not discriminating in jobs or services

• Questions about respecting people with different backgrounds

• Questions where helping someone in danger is the correct value

Practice-style example:

A shop owner refuses to serve a customer because of their religion. Is this acceptable in Australia?

• A) Yes, the owner can choose their customers

• B) No, this is discrimination and against Australian values

• C) Yes, if the owner’s religion says it is acceptable

Correct answer: B – Discrimination based on religion goes against the fair go principle.

How Australian Values Questions Appear in the Test

Values questions are standard multiple-choice questions mixed with other topics. All questions are based on the Common Bond booklet.

You will receive a Citizenship Appointment Letter that provides details about your upcoming citizenship interview and test. The citizenship interview is a formal assessment where your knowledge of Australian history, values, and constitutional principles will be evaluated.

The Australian citizenship test is computer based and conducted in English. You must bring a valid photo ID and any requested documents to confirm your identity at the test appointment. Only original documents are accepted for identity verification; photocopies or digital copies are not accepted.

Test Format

The Australian citizenship test is conducted on a computer at a Department of Home Affairs office or Services Australia location. You have 45 minutes to answer 20 questions.

Each question appears on screen with three options (A, B, C). Only one answer is correct.

The system tracks which questions are values questions separately from your total score. You will not be told during the test which questions count as values questions, so treat every question carefully.

Common Wording Patterns

Look for questions that begin with:

• “In Australia…”

• “What is expected of Australian citizens…”

• “Which of the following is an Australian value…”

Many questions describe a scenario at work, in the family, or in the Australian community. They often contrast acceptable behaviour with actions that would be against the law or Australian values.

Pass/Fail Examples for Australian Values Questions

Many candidates misunderstand how the scoring works. Here are clear examples:

• Scenario A: 20/20 correct, including all 5 values questions → PASS. You have met both requirements.

• Scenario B: 19/20 correct but only 4/5 values questions right → FAIL. Even with an excellent overall score, missing one values question means failing the entire test.

• Scenario C: 15/20 correct with 5/5 values questions → PASS. This is the minimum passing result.

• Scenario D: 17/20 correct but only 3/5 values questions → FAIL. A good overall score does not compensate for missing values questions.

Failing with a high score is frustrating. This rule shows how seriously the Australian Government takes these values for new Australian citizens.

If you fail, you can try again. Focus your study on the values section of the Common Bond booklet before your next attempt.

Common Mistakes on Values Questions

People from different cultural and legal backgrounds sometimes misjudge what is acceptable in Australia. These are the most common errors:

• Assuming personal or cultural customs are the same as Australian law: For example, some physical punishment of children that is normal in other countries is illegal in Australia.

• Thinking religious rules override Australian law: All people in Australia must follow Australian law. Religious beliefs do not provide exceptions to criminal law.

• Confusing respect with silence: Some candidates believe you cannot criticise the government. In Australia, peaceful criticism is a protected freedom.

• Underestimating gender equality: Assuming some jobs or responsibilities belong only to men or only to women will lead to wrong answers.

• Not noticing the phrase “within the law”: Freedoms such as speech and religion have legal limits. Answers that ignore these limits are incorrect.

• Choosing the “kind” answer instead of the legal answer: Sometimes an option sounds friendly but does not match the law or values in the booklet. Always choose based on Australian law and the resource booklet.

Mini-scenario trap:

A father believes his culture allows him to choose his daughter’s husband. In Australia, is this acceptable?

Wrong thinking: “This is my culture, so it should be respected.”

Correct understanding: Forced marriage is illegal in Australia. Every adult has the right to choose whether and whom to marry.

Always base your answers on the test booklet, not on your previous experience in another country. To avoid these common mistakes, make sure to use official resources and the resource booklet when preparing for the australian values questions.

How to Study Australian Values Effectively

The key to success is understanding, not just memorising. When you truly understand each value, you can confidently answer any scenario question.

To help you prepare for the Citizenship Test, there is a range of resources available, including the official Australian citizenship practice test and other practice tests in different languages. These practice tests allow you to familiarize yourself with the test format, question types, and key topics, increasing your confidence and chances of passing the Australian citizenship test.

Step-by-Step Study Plan

1. Read Part 4 “Australian values” in the Common Bond booklet slowly, at least twice. Use both English and your own language if a translated version helps.

2. Underline or highlight key words: freedom, dignity, equality, law, democracy, tolerance, fair go, responsibility.

3. Write a one-sentence explanation of each value in your own words using simple English.

4. Create a short list of real situations from your own life that match each value (work, school, neighbourhood, family).

Study Tools

• Use flashcards (paper or app) with “Name of value” on one side and “Simple definition + example” on the other.

• Record yourself reading the values aloud and listen while travelling or doing housework.

• Practise explaining each value to a friend or family member in English using short sentences.

Scenario Practice

• Regularly create small “What should happen in Australia?” scenarios and decide which value applies.

• Rewrite practice questions into your own words to confirm understanding.

• Focus extra practice on “within the law” limits, as many candidates find this concept difficult.

Revision Schedule

Aim for 15–20 minutes per day focusing only on values for at least two weeks before your test.

Checklist before test day:

• [ ] Can I name all 5 values without looking?

• [ ] Can I give one example of each value from real life?

• [ ] Can I explain why someone might fail with 19/20?

Ready for more practice? Download our Australian values study guide or take a full mock citizenship test to check your overall readiness.

Values Question Patterns and Examples

Recognising common patterns will make exam-day questions feel familiar and reduce stress.

Many test questions use statements about Australian history and culture to assess your knowledge of national identity. For example, you may encounter statements about Anzac Day, which is commemorated on April 25th to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand military personnel, or about the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and their role at Gallipoli during World War I.

Typical Wording Patterns

Questions often begin with phrases like:

• “In Australia, it is against the law to…”

• “Which of the following shows a ‘fair go’?”

• “What is an important part of Australia’s system of government?”

• “Which statement best describes freedom of religion in Australia?”

Usually, two options are clearly against the law or values, and one option matches the booklet.

Scenario-Based Examples for Each Value

Freedom and dignity: A woman wants to study at university, but her family disagrees. In Australia, can she enrol? Correct: Yes, every adult can choose their own education within the law. This reflects respect for individual freedom.

Equality: An employer says only men can apply for a management position. Is this acceptable? Correct: No, this is discrimination based on gender. This reflects equality of men and women.

Rule of law: A wealthy businessman is caught driving dangerously. What should happen? Correct: He should be charged and face court like anyone else. This reflects that no one is above the law.

Freedom of religion and speech: Can a person publicly disagree with the Prime Minister’s policies? Correct: Yes, peaceful political criticism is allowed. This reflects freedom of speech within the law.

Tolerance and fair go: A new employee is slower because they are still learning English. What should colleagues do? Correct: Be patient and offer support. This reflects tolerance and helping those in need.

Quick “Spot the Value” Exercise

Identify which Australian value each behaviour shows:

1. Waiting in line at the post office

2. Allowing a colleague to pray during their lunch break

3. Voting in a federal election

4. Treating a female supervisor the same as a male supervisor

5. Reporting someone who is threatening violence against a neighbour

Answers:

1. Tolerance / fair go

2. Freedom of religion

3. Parliamentary democracy

4. Equality of men and women

5. Respect for dignity / rule of law

Test yourself now: Take our values-only practice quiz to check your understanding, then try a full 20-question mock test when you feel confident.

Linking Australian Values to Australia’s Democratic Beliefs

The values section (Part 4) connects directly to earlier parts of the Common Bond booklet about democratic beliefs, rights and liberties. Understanding Australian values is essential for understanding Australia's democratic beliefs and system of government, which are central to the Commonwealth of Australia.

Understanding these connections helps you answer questions in both sections:

• Freedom and dignity → supports human rights and individual liberty in a democracy

• Equality of men and women → links to equal voting rights and participation in public life

• Rule of law and parliamentary democracy → is the basic structure of Australia’s democratic system

• Freedom of religion and speech → are core democratic rights allowing open debate

• Tolerance, fair go, helping those in need → support social harmony and trust in a democratic society

Many practice tests and mock tests include questions that blend values with democratic beliefs. Studying both sections together will build your confidence and help you succeed.

Key Takeaways

• You must get 5/5 on the Australian values questions and at least 15/20 overall to pass the Australian citizenship test.

• The values are fully explained in Part 4 of “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.”

• The five values are: freedom and dignity, equality of men and women, rule of law and democracy, freedom of religion and speech, and tolerance/fair go/helping those in need.

• Questions often use everyday scenarios about work, family, and community life.

• Common mistakes include confusing culture with law and forgetting that freedoms are “within the law.”

• Daily short practice with definitions and real-life examples builds strong understanding.

• Practising scenario questions before test day will greatly improve your confidence.

Next steps:

• Return to our Australian citizenship test overview for complete preparation guidance

• Take a full-length practice citizenship test focused on the latest content

• Download our one-page Australian values summary for last-minute revision

Frequently Asked Questions About Australian Values Questions

How many Australian values questions are in the citizenship test? There are 5 values questions in every test, and you must answer all 5 correctly to pass.

What happens if I get 19 out of 20 but only 4 values questions correct? This is a fail. Even with 19/20 overall, missing one values question means you do not pass the test.

Where can I study the official Australian values? The “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond” booklet contains all the information you need. It is available free online from the Department of Home Affairs in multiple languages.

Are the practice questions online the same as the real test questions? No. Real test questions are confidential. However, practice questions and mock tests follow the same style and are based on the official new test booklet.

Do I need to agree with every Australian value to pass the test? By becoming an Australian citizen, you agree to respect and accept these values and obey Australian law. The test checks your understanding of this commitment.

Can I take the test in my own language? No. The test is conducted in English only. However, the resource booklet is available in many languages to help you prepare.

How many times can I sit the test if I fail the values questions? You can try again if you fail. However, after several failed attempts, your citizenship application may be refused. Check the latest advice from the Department of Home Affairs for current rules.

When is my Australian citizenship completed? Your Australian citizenship is completed after you attend the citizenship ceremony and make the pledge. This is the final step where you officially become an Australian citizen.