Australian Citizenship Test — 50 Questions

All 50 questions with answers and explanations

Prefer to read through the questions at your own pace? Here is the full 50-question set with the correct answers and explanations. Use it as a study aid before attempting the quiz above.

1. Question 1

   The colours of the Australian National Flag are

   • A.blue, white and red
   • B.green, gold and blue
   • C.blue, grey and red

   Correct answer: A — blue, white and red

   The Australian National Flag is blue, white and red.

2. Question 2

   Which of these statements about men and women in Australia is correct?

   • A.Only men have the right to make independent choices about personal matters
   • B.Men and women should be provided equality of opportunity to pursue their goals
   • C.Physical violence against a spouse is not a criminal offence

   Correct answer: B — Men and women should be provided equality of opportunity to pursue their goals

   The booklet states: 'Men and women have equal rights in Australia and should be provided equality of opportunity to pursue their goals and interests.'

3. Question 3

   Serving in an Australian parliament

   • A.is an honour and a serious responsibility
   • B.is a requirement for all citizens on the electoral roll
   • C.allows people to avoid paying income tax

   Correct answer: A — is an honour and a serious responsibility

   It is an honour and a serious responsibility to serve in an Australian parliament.

4. Question 4

   Which of these statements about the gold rush is correct?

   • A.People came from all around the world to try to make their fortunes.
   • B.Australia's population stayed the same from 1851 to 1861.
   • C.The gold rush began when the First Fleet arrived.

   Correct answer: A — People came from all around the world to try to make their fortunes.

   People from all around the world came to these colonies to try to make their fortunes. In 10 years, Australia's population more than doubled.

5. Question 5

   Which of these statements about government in Australia is correct?

   • A.The government does not allow some religions
   • B.The government in Australia is secular
   • C.Religious laws are passed by Parliament

   Correct answer: B — The government in Australia is secular

   The government in Australia is secular, which means it operates separately from churches or other religious entities. Australia has no official national religion and religious laws have no legal status — Australian law must be followed by everyone.

6. Question 6

   If you do not vote and have no good reason,

   • A.you may have to pay a fine
   • B.you will be removed from the electoral roll
   • C.nothing happens

   Correct answer: A — you may have to pay a fine

   If you do not vote in an election and do not have a good reason for not voting, you may have to pay a fine.

7. Question 7

   In Australia, when people have a difference of opinion, what are they expected to do?

   • A.Report those with different opinions to government authorities
   • B.Listen to others and respect their views and opinions, even if they are different from their own, and be tolerant of each other where they disagree
   • C.Avoid engaging with people whose views differ from their own

   Correct answer: B — Listen to others and respect their views and opinions, even if they are different from their own, and be tolerant of each other where they disagree

   Australians believe in mutual respect and tolerance for others. This means listening to others and respecting their views and opinions, even when they are different from your own. People should be tolerant of each other where they find that they disagree.

8. Question 8

   In Australia, who decides if a person is guilty or not?

   • A.The jury alone without the judge
   • B.The government
   • C.The court

   Correct answer: C — The court

   The police may give evidence in court, but the court decides if a person is guilty or not.

9. Question 9

   Which of the following is an example of equality in Australia?

   • A.Men have more rights than women in employment
   • B.Australian society values the equal rights of all people regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race, or national or ethnic origin
   • C.People of certain religions are given priority in courts

   Correct answer: B — Australian society values the equal rights of all people regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race, or national or ethnic origin

   Australian society values the equal rights of all people, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, race, or national or ethnic origin.

10. Question 10

    The official flag of Australia is

    • A.the Commonwealth Coat of Arms
    • B.the Australian National Flag
    • C.the Torres Strait Islander Flag

    Correct answer: B — the Australian National Flag

    The Australian National Flag is the official flag of our nation.

11. Question 11

    Which of these about judges and magistrates is correct?

    • A.They must follow directions from the Prime Minister
    • B.The government can remove them if it disagrees with their decisions
    • C.They are independent and no one can tell them what to decide

    Correct answer: C — They are independent and no one can tell them what to decide

    Judges and magistrates are independent and no one can tell them what to decide. The government cannot take their jobs away if it disagrees with their decisions.

12. Question 12

    What should you do if you witness cyber abuse in Australia?

    • A.Ignore it as online behaviour is not governed by Australian law
    • B.Only report it to the person being abused and let them decide what to do
    • C.Report it to the police and to the online service or social media platform where it occurred

    Correct answer: C — Report it to the police and to the online service or social media platform where it occurred

    Many types of cyber abuse are against the law in Australia and should be reported to the police and the online service, such as a social media platform, that it occurred on.

13. Question 13

    On the Australian National Flag, the Southern Cross is located

    • A.under the Union Jack
    • B.in the centre
    • C.on the right

    Correct answer: C — on the right

    The Southern Cross, on the right, is a group of stars that can be seen in the southern sky.

14. Question 14

    Under the new Australian Constitution in 1901, what was established?

    • A.Australia's national democratic institutions
    • B.Australia's full powers over defence and foreign affairs
    • C.the Australian National Flag and Coat of Arms

    Correct answer: A — Australia's national democratic institutions

    It was at this time that our national democratic institutions, including our national parliament, government and the High Court were established under the new Australian Constitution.

15. Question 15

    Which of these is a lawful act in Australia?

    • A.promoting violence against a cultural or ethnic group
    • B.meeting with people for social or political discussion
    • C.making false allegations and encouraging others to break the law

    Correct answer: B — meeting with people for social or political discussion

    The booklet states: 'In Australia, people are free to meet in public or private places for social or political discussion.' It also states that promoting violence and making false allegations are illegal.

16. Question 16

    An Acknowledgement of Country is

    • A.a cultural practice performed by a Traditional Custodian welcoming visitors
    • B.an opportunity to acknowledge every Australian's contribution
    • C.an opportunity to recognise that a gathering is on Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander land

    Correct answer: C — an opportunity to recognise that a gathering is on Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander land

    An Acknowledgement of Country is an opportunity to recognise that the gathering is on Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander land.

17. Question 17

    Who can become a member of Parliament at the federal level?

    • A.Any Australian resident aged 18 or over
    • B.Australian citizens aged 18 years or over who are not dual citizens
    • C.Any person over 18 with permanent residency

    Correct answer: B — Australian citizens aged 18 years or over who are not dual citizens

    Australian citizens aged 18 years or over who are not dual citizens can seek election to parliament at the federal, state or territory level.

18. Question 18

    Our representatives in government make laws to

    • A.protect their own rights
    • B.ensure all citizens pay correct tax
    • C.maintain an orderly, free and safe society

    Correct answer: C — maintain an orderly, free and safe society

    Our representatives in government make laws to maintain an orderly, free and safe society and to protect our rights.

19. Question 19

    In times of crisis, Australians

    • A.come together and take care of each other
    • B.ignore each other
    • C.take care of each other only in good times

    Correct answer: A — come together and take care of each other

    The booklet states: 'In Australia, we come together in times of crisis and take care of each other in good times and bad.'

20. Question 20

    Who can be called to serve on a jury?

    • A.members of the Australian Public Service
    • B.Australian citizens on the electoral roll
    • C.Australian citizens and permanent residents

    Correct answer: B — Australian citizens on the electoral roll

    Australian citizens who are on the electoral roll can be called to serve on a jury.

21. Question 21

    Which level of government is responsible for rubbish collection?

    • A.Federal government
    • B.State government
    • C.Local government

    Correct answer: C — Local government

    Local governments are responsible for rubbish collection, drains, parks and playgrounds, local roads, and building permits.

22. Question 22

    Which of these statements about the English language in Australia is correct?

    • A.People living in Australia do not have to learn English
    • B.It is valued as an important unifying element of society
    • C.It is not essential for economic participation

    Correct answer: B — It is valued as an important unifying element of society

    The booklet states: 'Australian society values the English language as the national language of Australia, and as an important unifying element of society.'

23. Question 23

    Which of these is an example of mateship?

    • A.surfing and drinking
    • B.taking a meal to an elderly neighbour
    • C.voting in a federal election

    Correct answer: B — taking a meal to an elderly neighbour

    The booklet states: 'We help each other in times of need. For example, this might mean taking a meal to an elderly neighbour, driving a friend to a medical appointment, or visiting someone who is sick, frail or lonely.'

24. Question 24

    What is Australia's national flower?

    • A.The eucalyptus tree
    • B.The golden wattle
    • C.The waratah

    Correct answer: B — The golden wattle

    Australia's national flower is the golden wattle, a small tree that grows mainly in south-eastern Australia. It has bright green leaves and many golden yellow flowers in spring.

25. Question 25

    What is Australia's system of government?

    • A.a republic
    • B.a parliamentary democracy
    • C.a presidential democracy

    Correct answer: B — a parliamentary democracy

    Australia's system of government is a parliamentary democracy.

26. Question 26

    According to Aboriginal legend, the colours of the opal were created by

    • A.a fragment of Ayers Rock
    • B.the sun shining on the golden wattle
    • C.a rainbow touching the earth

    Correct answer: C — a rainbow touching the earth

    According to Aboriginal legend, a rainbow touched the earth and created the colours of the opal.

27. Question 27

    In Australia, change should occur through

    • A.referendums only
    • B.violence
    • C.discussion, peaceful persuasion and the democratic process

    Correct answer: C — discussion, peaceful persuasion and the democratic process

    Australians believe that change should occur through discussion, peaceful persuasion, and the democratic process. We reject violence as a way to change a person's mind or the law.

28. Question 28

    Which of the following is an example of contributing to the Australian community?

    • A.Volunteering or fundraising for a charity is a great opportunity to strengthen our community
    • B.I should not make any effort to get to know other people
    • C.People in Australia should not contribute to the community because Australia is a free country

    Correct answer: A — Volunteering or fundraising for a charity is a great opportunity to strengthen our community

    Australia has a strong tradition of community service and volunteering. Volunteering is a great opportunity to share knowledge, learn new skills and increase your integration into and sense of belonging to the Australian community — in the spirit of mateship and helping each other in times of need.

29. Question 29

    In Australia, who can apply for a divorce?

    • A.Either spouse can apply, even if the other wishes to continue the marriage
    • B.Only the husband can apply for a divorce
    • C.Only with the prior written permission of both families

    Correct answer: A — Either spouse can apply, even if the other wishes to continue the marriage

    Divorce is acceptable in Australia. Either a husband or wife may apply for a divorce, even if the other spouse wishes to continue the marriage. Both men and women have the right to make independent choices about personal matters such as marriage and religion, and are protected by the law from intimidation or violence.

30. Question 30

    The Governor-General is appointed by

    • A.the Senate after a national vote
    • B.the King, on advice from the Prime Minister
    • C.Parliament, on advice from the Prime Minister

    Correct answer: B — the King, on advice from the Prime Minister

    The King of Australia appoints the Governor-General as his representative in Australia, on advice from the Australian Prime Minister.

31. Question 31

    Which statement accurately describes the 'fair go' principle in Australia?

    • A.What someone achieves should result from their talents, work and effort—not their wealth or background
    • B.Wealthy people automatically have more rights than others
    • C.Your success is determined entirely by your family background

    Correct answer: A — What someone achieves should result from their talents, work and effort—not their wealth or background

    The Australian value of 'fair go' or equality of opportunity means that achievement should be based on talents, work and effort rather than wealth or background. There are no formal class distinctions in Australian society.

32. Question 32

    The Australian Defence Force is made up of the

    • A.Army, Navy and Air Force
    • B.Army, Police and Air Force
    • C.Ground Force, Navy and Air Force

    Correct answer: A — Army, Navy and Air Force

    Australian citizens also have the right to apply for a job in the Australian Defence Force (the Army, Navy and Air Force).

33. Question 33

    Which state is home to many large mining projects?

    • A.Tasmania
    • B.Western Australia
    • C.Australian Capital Territory

    Correct answer: B — Western Australia

    The state is home to many large mining projects (referring to Western Australia).

34. Question 34

    A Councillor is

    • A.an elected member of a local council
    • B.a representative appointed by the state Governor
    • C.the leader of a local council

    Correct answer: A — an elected member of a local council

    A Councillor is an elected member of a local council.

35. Question 35

    In the top left corner of the Australian National Flag is

    • A.the Southern Cross
    • B.the golden wattle
    • C.the Union Jack

    Correct answer: C — the Union Jack

    The 'Union Jack', which is the flag of the United Kingdom is in the top left corner.

36. Question 36

    Which of the following is a way to actively participate in Australian society?

    • A.volunteer to do social and community work
    • B.build a successful business
    • C.apply for an Australian passport

    Correct answer: A — volunteer to do social and community work

    For example, you can join neighbourhood and local community organisations, volunteer to do social and community work, join an arts or cultural organisation, and actively participate in political life.

37. Question 37

    Who represents the King in the Northern Territory?

    • A.A Governor
    • B.A Premier
    • C.An Administrator appointed by the Governor-General

    Correct answer: C — An Administrator appointed by the Governor-General

    In the Northern Territory, an Administrator appointed by the Governor-General represents a similar role to that of a state Governor.

38. Question 38

    What rights do Australian citizens have regarding legal representation?

    • A.Every person has the right to be represented by a lawyer in court
    • B.Only wealthy defendants can afford legal representation
    • C.Legal representation is only available to government officials

    Correct answer: A — Every person has the right to be represented by a lawyer in court

    Every person in Australia has the right to be represented by a lawyer in court. This legal right applies to all people in Australia, ensuring fair access to the justice system regardless of financial status.

39. Question 39

    In the Commonwealth Coat of Arms, the shield in the centre represents

    • A.Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
    • B.the island groups in the Torres Strait
    • C.the six states and federation

    Correct answer: C — the six states and federation

    The shield in the centre represents the six states and federation.

40. Question 40

    In Australia, people should be tolerant of each other when they disagree. This means

    • A.people only need to treat each other with respect if they agree
    • B.peaceful disagreement reflects Australian values of mutual respect
    • C.it is against the law to disagree with one another

    Correct answer: B — peaceful disagreement reflects Australian values of mutual respect

    The booklet states: 'Australia values the principles of mutual respect and tolerance. This means listening to others and respecting their views and opinions, even when they are different from your own. People should be tolerant of each other where they find that they disagree.'

41. Question 41

    In Australia, if someone disagrees with you, you should

    • A.peacefully disagree
    • B.use verbal abuse
    • C.use intimidation

    Correct answer: A — peacefully disagree

    The booklet states: 'Australians believe in peaceful disagreement and above all the right to be safe and free from violence and intimidation.'

42. Question 42

    The two Houses of the Australian Parliament are

    • A.the House of Representatives and the Senate
    • B.the House of Representatives and the High Court
    • C.the Senate and the Royal House

    Correct answer: A — the House of Representatives and the Senate

    The Australian Parliament has two Houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

43. Question 43

    Which of the following is true about voting?

    • A.it is only compulsory in referendums
    • B.it is compulsory in federal and state or territory elections
    • C.it is a responsibility for citizens aged 21 or over

    Correct answer: B — it is compulsory in federal and state or territory elections

    Voting is compulsory in federal and state or territory elections.

44. Question 44

    Government ministers are responsible for

    • A.an area of government
    • B.the electoral roll
    • C.the Parliament

    Correct answer: A — an area of government

    Government ministers are responsible for an area of government (called a portfolio).

45. Question 45

    How many senators does each territory elect?

    • A.6
    • B.2
    • C.12

    Correct answer: B — 2

    The Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory elect two senators each.

46. Question 46

    Voting by secret ballot means

    • A.your employer must be told who you voted for
    • B.voting is not compulsory
    • C.no one can know who you voted for unless you choose to tell them

    Correct answer: C — no one can know who you voted for unless you choose to tell them

    No one is allowed to know whom you have voted for, unless you choose to tell them.

47. Question 47

    In Australia, laws are determined by

    • A.the Australian Federal Police
    • B.parliaments elected by the people
    • C.judges

    Correct answer: B — parliaments elected by the people

    The booklet states: 'Our laws are determined by parliaments elected by the people.'

48. Question 48

    The three officially recognised flags of Australia are

    • A.the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag and the Tasmanian Flag
    • B.the Australian National Flag, the Commonwealth Star Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag
    • C.the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag

    Correct answer: C — the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag

    The Australian National Flag is the official flag of our nation. Other flags that are officially recognised and may be flown in the community include the Australian Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag.

49. Question 49

    Which of these statements about keeping our society safe is correct?

    • A.Only the police have responsibilities to protect Australian society
    • B.If people suspect someone may be planning a serious crime, they should report this to authorities
    • C.If a person knows of a child being abused, they should talk to the parents, not the police

    Correct answer: B — If people suspect someone may be planning a serious crime, they should report this to authorities

    The booklet states: 'In Australia, we each have responsibilities to help protect Australian society. For example, if people in Australia suspect their friend or neighbour may be planning to commit a serious crime, they should report this to Australian government authorities as soon as possible.'

50. Question 50

    Representatives in parliament must answer to

    • A.the Prime Minister
    • B.the people
    • C.the Senate

    Correct answer: B — the people

    The representatives in parliament must answer to the people, through elections, for the decisions they make.