Australian Citizenship Test Questions: All 5 Topics Explained

The Australian citizenship test has 20 questions drawn from five topic areas. You need to answer at least 15 correctly (75%) to pass. Every question comes from the official study resource, Our Common Bond.

Test format at a glance

• 20 questions per test (multiple choice, 3 options each)
• Pass mark: 75% — at least 15 correct answers
• No time limit
• Conducted at a Department of Home Affairs office
• All questions are drawn from Our Common Bond

Topic 1: Australia and its people

This section covers Australian history, geography, national symbols, and cultural traditions. Expect questions about:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history (they arrived 65,000–40,000 years ago)
• European settlement — the First Fleet arrived 26 January 1788
• Federation — the Commonwealth of Australia was established 1 January 1901
• Australia Day (26 January) and Anzac Day (25 April)
• Capital cities of each state and territory
• National symbols: anthem (Advance Australia Fair), colours (green and gold), gemstone (opal), floral emblem (golden wattle)
• The Australian flag — the Union Jack, Commonwealth Star, and Southern Cross

Topic 2: Australian values

Questions in this section focus on the values shared by Australians: freedom, equality, mutual respect, and a fair go for all. Key points include:

• Australia's national language is English
• Australians believe in freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of association
• Men and women have equal rights under Australian law
• Australia is a culturally and linguistically diverse society
• Australians value a "fair go" — the idea that everyone deserves an equal opportunity

Topic 3: Democratic beliefs, rights and liberties

This section covers how Australian democracy works and the rights and freedoms that citizens enjoy. Key topics:

• Australia is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy
• The rule of law — everyone, including the government, is subject to the law
• A referendum is a vote by Australian citizens to change the Australian Constitution
• Australians have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to a fair trial
• All citizens aged 18+ must enrol and vote in federal elections (voting is compulsory)

Topic 4: Government and the law in Australia

Australia has three levels of government and a court system that upholds the rule of law. Expect questions about:

• The three levels of government: federal, state/territory, and local
• The federal Parliament consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate
• The Prime Minister is the leader of the government
• The Governor-General represents the King of Australia
• The High Court of Australia is the highest court in the land
• Australians must pay taxes — these fund public services including schools and hospitals

Topic 5: Becoming an Australian citizen

This section covers the citizenship application process, the responsibilities of citizens, and what the citizenship pledge means. Key points:

• Australian citizens have a legal obligation to enrol and vote in federal elections
• Citizens can apply for an Australian passport
• New citizens make a pledge of commitment to Australia at a citizenship ceremony
• Citizens must obey Australian law and uphold Australian values
• Dual citizenship is permitted in many cases

How to practise for all 5 topics

Our practice test draws 20 random questions from a bank of 100 covering all five sections. Each question comes with an explanation after you answer, so you can learn as you go.

For deeper study, read the official Our Common Bond study guide and listen to the audio lessons.