An issue arises when some migrants opt for Australian citizenship while others do not. Although Australia permits dual citizenship, other countries may not, forcing some migrants to renounce their original citizenship to become Australian.
FIGURE4 Australian citizenship means that you can apply for an Australian passport.
Most migrants to Australia who apply for citizenship must sit a ‘citizenship test’ as part of the citizenship process. This test is based on their knowledge of: • Australia and its people • Australian democratic beliefs, rights and liberties • government and the law in Australia • an understanding of and commitment to Australian values based on freedom, respect and equality. You can practise the test by visiting the immigration and citizenship page of the Department for Home Affairs website. SkillBuilder discussion Evaluating democratic institutions and systems 1. Becoming a citizen of Australia is not easy. Make a list of what you might need to do to be considered for Australian citizenship. 2. What do you think are the most important responsibilities of being an Australian citizen?
SkillBuilder discussion Evaluating democratic institutions and systems 1. View the responsibilities of an Australian citizen ( FIGURE5 ). Discuss what is meant by ‘Australia’s democratic values’ and ‘rights and liberties of Australia’. 2. In pairs, discuss whether the responsibilities are fair.
FIGURE5 The responsibilities of an Australian citizen
Behave in accordance with
Australia’s democratic values
Respect the rights and liberties of Australia
Defend Australia if necessary
Responsibilities of Australian citizens
Serve on jury duty if summoned
Follow and obey the law
Vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in referendums
TOPIC19 Citizenship, diversity and identity 567
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