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Responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship · 1 min read

Privileges—what Australia will give you

As an Australian citizen you can:

• vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum

• apply for children born overseas to become Australian citizens by descent

• apply for a job in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force

• seek election to parliament

• apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely

• ask for consular assistance from an Australian official while overseas.

Test yourself on this topic

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

  1. 1. What can an Australian citizen ask an Australian official for while overseas?

    • A local work permit
    • Relief from foreign taxes
    • Consular assistance
    • A free flight back home

    Explanation: Citizens abroad may seek consular assistance from Australian officials. Officials do not provide flights, work permits or tax relief.

  2. 2. Which TWO of the following are privileges of Australian citizenship?

    • Ignoring a law you disagree with
    • Seeking election to parliament
    • Paying a lower rate of tax
    • Applying for a public service job

    Explanation: Standing for parliament and applying to work in the Australian Public Service are both privileges of citizenship. Tax rates do not change, and nobody may ignore a law.

  3. 3. Which of these is a privilege of Australian citizenship?

    • Applying for a driver licence
    • Applying for an Australian passport
    • Enrolling a child at a school
    • Opening an Australian bank account

    Explanation: Only citizens may apply for an Australian passport, so it is listed as a privilege of citizenship.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet