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Our equalities · 1 min read

Equality of opportunity and a ‘fair go’

Australians value equal opportunity in our society; what is often called a ‘fair go’. This means that what someone achieves in life should be as a result of their talents, work and effort, rather than their wealth or background. This is to ensure that there are no formal class distinctions in Australian society.

Test yourself on this topic

3 questions on this topic, each with the answer explained.

  1. 1. Under the idea of a 'fair go', what should decide what a person achieves in life?

    • The contacts their parents have
    • The suburb where they were born
    • Their family wealth and background
    • Their talents, work and effort

    Explanation: A 'fair go' means success comes from what a person can do and how hard they work, not from money or family standing.

  2. 2. What is the common Australian expression for valuing equal opportunity?

    • A 'fresh start'
    • A 'clean slate'
    • A 'fair go'
    • A 'good deal'

    Explanation: Australians describe equal opportunity in society as giving everyone a 'fair go'.

  3. 3. Why does Australian society value equal opportunity?

    • To make sure all wages are the same
    • To ensure there are no formal class distinctions
    • To make sure all people work the same hours
    • To make sure everyone owns property

    Explanation: Equal opportunity keeps Australia free of formal social classes. It is not about identical pay, property or working hours.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet