About the Australian Citizenship Test
The Australian Citizenship Test is a mandatory step in the citizenship application process for most applicants aged 18 to 59. It is administered by the Department of Home Affairs and is based entirely on the official study resource Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. The test assesses your knowledge of Australia's history, democratic values, government, rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Passing the test is required before you can attend a citizenship ceremony and take the pledge.
The test covers three areas:
- Australia and Its People: Australia's geography, history, Indigenous peoples, significant events, national symbols, public holidays, and multicultural society
- Australia's Democratic Beliefs, Rights and Liberties: Australian values, freedom of speech, religion, association and movement; equality under the law; the rule of law; respect for others
- Government and the Law in Australia: the Australian Constitution, the three levels of government, how elections work, the role of the Governor-General, and the responsibilities of citizens
Important: You must answer all 5 Australian values questions correctly to pass, no exceptions. Even if you score 15 or more out of 20 overall, you will fail if you miss any values question. Study these questions carefully: they cover concepts like freedom of religion, equality of men and women, the rule of law, and respect for others.
Key Australian Citizenship Test Facts to Know
- Questions: 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official study guide Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond
- Pass mark: 15 out of 20 (75%), and all 5 values questions must be answered correctly
- Time limit: 45 minutes
- Language: Test is offered in English; a translation service is available for people who need assistance understanding questions
- Retakes: You can retake the test if you fail, there is no waiting period restriction, but you must reschedule through your Department of Home Affairs appointment
- Exemptions: Applicants under 18, over 60, or with a permanent physical or mental incapacity may be exempt from the test
- National Anthem: Australia's national anthem is Advance Australia Fair, you must be able to recognise it and understand its significance
- Study resource: The entire test is based on Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, available free from the Department of Home Affairs website
The Department of Home Affairs does not provide a full bank of practice questions. TestReady AU fills that gap with 100+ realistic citizenship test questions covering all three sections, with step-by-step explanations for every answer.
| Feature | Home Affairs / Official Resources | TestReady AU |
|---|
| Practice questions | Limited sample only | 100+ questions |
| All 3 test sections | Not drill-ready | History, Values, Government |
| Answer explanations | None | Every question |
| Instant feedback | No | Yes |
| Drill by section | No | Yes |
Free sample: Try 5 randomly selected questions below. Use Drill Mode to make sure you can answer all values questions correctly, these are mandatory to pass.
