What is Australian citizenship?
Australian citizenship is a legal status that gives people full membership of the Australian community. Citizens share a commitment to Australia’s values, laws and way of life.
Becoming a citizen is a significant step that involves both rights and responsibilities.
Rights of Australian citizens
- the right to vote in federal and state elections
- the right to stand for public office
- the right to apply for an Australian passport
- the right to receive consular assistance overseas
Responsibilities of Australian citizens
- obeying Australian laws
- voting in elections and referendums
- serving on a jury if required
- defending Australia if the need arises
The Australian Citizenship Pledge
At a citizenship ceremony, new citizens make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. By making the pledge, they promise loyalty to Australia and to share its democratic beliefs.
The pledge is an important symbol of commitment to Australia’s values and future.
Citizenship ceremonies
Citizenship ceremonies are usually held by local councils. They are formal occasions where people from many backgrounds become Australian citizens together.
What you must know for the test
- the rights of Australian citizens
- the responsibilities of citizenship
- the meaning of the Citizenship Pledge
- that citizenship involves commitment to Australia