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Our freedoms · 1 min read

Freedom of speech and freedom of expression

Freedom of speech is a core Australian value and underpins our democratic system. Freedom of speech means people can say and write what they think, and discuss their ideas with others. For example, people can criticise the government, protest peacefully against government decisions and campaign to change laws, so long as at all times they are still obeying Australian laws.

Freedom of expression means people can express their views, including through art, film, music and literature. People are free to meet in public or private places for social or political discussion.

At all times, even while engaging in freedom of speech and freedom of expression, the laws of Australia must be obeyed. We must also respect other people’s freedom of speech and freedom of expression.

Test yourself on this topic

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

  1. 1. Besides obeying the law, what else is expected of people who speak and express their views?

    • Agreeing with the views held by the majority of people
    • Speaking only about topics they have formally studied
    • Respecting other people's freedom of speech and expression
    • Reporting their opinions to the local council each year

    Explanation: The freedom belongs to everyone, so others must be allowed to speak and express their views too.

  2. 2. Freedom of expression allows people to express their views through which of these?

    • Only lessons taught inside a school
    • Only letters written to a member of parliament
    • Only speeches made at public rallies
    • Art, film, music and literature

    Explanation: Creative work such as art, film, music and writing is a recognised way of expressing views.

  3. 3. How is freedom of speech described in Australia?

    • A core Australian value that underpins our democratic system
    • A recent rule that the courts introduced for elections
    • A privilege granted by parliament to citizens only
    • A tradition that applies only inside parliament

    Explanation: Free speech is treated as a core value because democracy depends on people being able to speak openly.

  4. 4. What does freedom of speech mean in Australia?

    • People can write freely only if a government office approves it
    • People can share their ideas only with members of their family
    • People can speak freely only about matters that are not political
    • People can say and write what they think and discuss their ideas

    Explanation: Freedom of speech covers speaking, writing and discussing ideas with other people.

  5. 5. What limit always applies when people use freedom of speech and freedom of expression?

    • The discussion must be held in English
    • The laws of Australia must be obeyed
    • A permit must be bought for each occasion
    • A government minister must approve the topic

    Explanation: These freedoms never remove the duty to obey Australian law.

  6. 6. Where may people in Australia meet for social or political discussion?

    • Only in places licensed by the government
    • In public or private places
    • Only in their own homes
    • Only in parliament buildings

    Explanation: People may gather for discussion in public places or in private ones, as they choose.

  7. 7. Which TWO actions are allowed in Australia under freedom of speech?

    • Breaking laws in order to make a point
    • Criticising the government
    • Protesting peacefully against a government decision
    • Threatening people who disagree with you

    Explanation: People may criticise the government and hold peaceful protests, but only while they keep obeying Australian laws.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet