What type of questions are on the test?
Every question is multiple choice and the test is computer-based. You choose one answer from the options given.
Because the questions are based on Our Common Bond, it helps to understand the ideas in it, such as what equality or freedom of speech mean in everyday life, rather than only memorising facts.
Which topics do the questions cover?
Home Affairs lists four areas. Our practice bank is organised the same way:
| Testable part | Practice questions here | Study |
|---|---|---|
| Australia and its people | 149 | Study notes |
| Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties | 153 | Study notes |
| Government and the law in Australia | 165 | Study notes |
| Australian values | 159 | Study notes |
Are the real test questions published?
No. Home Affairs publishes an official practice test that is designed to look and feel like the real one, but describes it as a sample only: the questions on the day will be different.
The questions on this site are independently written from the testable section of Our Common Bond. They are not the real test questions. Each one has an explanation and a link back to the part of the booklet it comes from, so you learn the underlying facts rather than memorising answers.
Sample practice questions
Try these, then open each answer to check yourself.
- Q1Australian Values
Australian values are based on which of the following?
- Freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity
- Wealth, social class, family status and privilege
- Religion, heritage, tradition and family background
- Obedience, loyalty to leaders and strict tradition
Show answerHide answer
A. Freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity
The source states that Australian values are based on freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity, and that these are central to Australia remaining a secure, prosperous and peaceful place to live.
- Q2Australian Values
What does ‘a fair go’ mean in Australian culture?
- Only certain groups deserve opportunities
- Everyone gets the same outcome regardless of effort
- Success is guaranteed for everyone
- Everyone should have equal opportunity to succeed
Show answerHide answer
D. Everyone should have equal opportunity to succeed
A ‘fair go’ means everyone, regardless of their background, is given an equal opportunity to achieve success in life. It is about equal opportunity, not guaranteed equal outcomes.
- Q3Australia and its People
What is the capital city of Australia?
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Canberra
Show answerHide answer
D. Canberra
Canberra is Australia’s capital city. It is located in the Australian Capital Territory, between Sydney and Melbourne.
- Q4Australia and its People
Who were the first people to live in Australia?
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Convicts from Great Britain on the First Fleet
- Chinese migrants who came during the gold rush
- Free settlers from Great Britain and Ireland
Show answerHide answer
A. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Australia’s first inhabitants are the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who have the oldest continuous cultures and traditions in the world. The archaeological record indicates Aboriginal peoples arrived between 65,000 and 40,000 years ago.
- Q5Democratic Beliefs, Rights & Liberties
What is freedom of speech in Australia?
- Only politicians and journalists can express their opinions
- You can say anything you like, even if it breaks the law
- You can express opinions only if the government agrees
- You can express your opinions freely, but within the law
Show answerHide answer
D. You can express your opinions freely, but within the law
In Australia, you have the right to express your opinions freely, but this freedom is balanced with responsibilities and must be exercised within the law.
- Q6Responsibilities and Privileges of Citizenship
Which of these is a responsibility of Australian citizenship?
- Obeying the laws of Australia
- Attending local council meetings
- Holding a current Australian passport
- Joining a political party
Show answerHide answer
A. Obeying the laws of Australia
The responsibilities of Australian citizens are to obey the laws of Australia, vote in elections and referendums, defend Australia should the need arise, and serve on a jury if called to do so.
- Q7Government and the Law
What is the role of the Governor-General?
- To make all laws
- To choose Australia’s Head of State
- To lead the government
- To represent the King in Australia
Show answerHide answer
D. To represent the King in Australia
The Governor-General is appointed by the King, on the advice of the Prime Minister, as his representative in Australia. The Prime Minister, not the Governor-General, leads the government.
- Q8Government and the Law
Who is the head of state in Australia?
- The Governor-General
- The King
- The Prime Minister
- The President
Show answerHide answer
B. The King
Australia’s Head of State is the King of Australia, His Majesty King Charles III. He is represented in Australia by the Governor-General.
Common questions
How many Australian values questions are on the test?
5 of the 20 questions are about Australian values, and you must answer all of them correctly.
Are the real test questions published anywhere?
No. Even the official Home Affairs practice test is described as a sample only, with different questions on the day. Any site claiming to have the real questions should be treated with caution.
Are the questions on this site the real test questions?
No. They are independently written practice questions based on the testable section of Our Common Bond, with explanations and links back to the source.
Official sources
Independent study resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian Government.