The 2026 Australian Citizenship Test draws questions from four categories: Australian Values, Australia and Its People, Democratic Beliefs, and Government and the Law. Exact questions aren't published, but all content comes from the official "Our Common Bond" resource.
The Australian Citizenship Test in 2026 consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from four categories, all based on the official "Our Common Bond" booklet published by the Department of Home Affairs. While the exact questions are not publicly released, the topics and question styles are well established and predictable.
Understanding the question categories and practising with realistic sample questions is the most effective way to prepare. Here's a complete breakdown of what to expect in each category.
The Four Question Categories
Every question on the Australian Citizenship Test falls into one of these four categories:
| Category | Questions | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Values | 5 questions | Must get ALL correct to pass |
| Australia and Its People | ~5 questions | Part of 75% overall pass mark |
| Democratic Beliefs, Rights and Liberties | ~5 questions | Part of 75% overall pass mark |
| Government and the Law | ~5 questions | Part of 75% overall pass mark |
Category 1: Australian Values Questions
The Australian values questions are the most critical section. You must get all 5 correct — there is no room for error. These questions test your understanding of the values that underpin Australian society.
Core Australian Values Tested
- Freedom of the individual — freedom of speech, expression, religion, and association
- Respect — dignity of individuals, mutual respect, compassion for those in need
- Equality — equal opportunity regardless of gender, race, religion, or background
- Democracy — government by the people, parliamentary system, rule of law
- The rule of law — everyone is subject to and protected by Australian law
- A fair go — equal opportunity for all people regardless of background
Sample Values Questions
Q: Which of the following is a responsibility of all Australian citizens?
- a) To serve in the military
- b) To obey Australian laws
- c) To attend religious services
- d) To join a political party
Answer: b) — All citizens must obey Australian laws. This reflects the value of the rule of law.
Q: What do we mean by "a fair go" in Australia?
- a) Everyone should support the same sports team
- b) Everyone deserves equal opportunity regardless of background
- c) Everyone must earn the same amount of money
- d) Everyone should live in the same neighbourhood
Answer: b) — "A fair go" means equal opportunity for all, which is a core Australian value.
Category 2: Australia and Its People
This category covers Indigenous heritage, national symbols, important dates, and cultural identity. Questions draw from the history and character of Australia as described in Our Common Bond.
Key Topics
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples — the first Australians
- Australia Day (26 January), Anzac Day (25 April), and other significant dates
- National symbols — flag, coat of arms, national anthem
- The Australian way of life — sport, mateship, multiculturalism
Sample Question
Q: Who are the original inhabitants of Australia?
- a) The British settlers
- b) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- c) European explorers
- d) Asian traders
Answer: b) — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived in Australia for over 65,000 years.
Category 3: Democratic Beliefs, Rights and Liberties
This section tests your knowledge of Australia's democratic system, individual rights, and freedoms. According to the Department of Home Affairs, understanding these concepts is essential for active citizenship.
Key Topics
- Freedom of speech, religion, and association
- Parliamentary democracy and how it works
- The role of the Constitution
- Separation of powers — legislative, executive, judicial
- Rights and responsibilities of citizens
Sample Question
Q: What is the role of the Governor-General?
- a) To make laws for Australia
- b) To represent the King in Australia
- c) To lead the opposition party
- d) To run local councils
Answer: b) — The Governor-General is the King's representative in Australia and performs constitutional and ceremonial duties.
Category 4: Government and the Law
The most fact-heavy category covers the three levels of government, voting, and the legal system. Many candidates find this the most challenging section because of the specific details involved.
Key Topics
- Three levels of government — federal, state/territory, local
- Compulsory voting and how elections work
- The role of the Prime Minister, Parliament, and the High Court
- How laws are made in Australia
- The Australian Constitution and its significance
Sample Question
Q: How many states and territories make up Australia?
- a) 5 states and 2 territories
- b) 6 states and 2 territories
- c) 7 states and 3 territories
- d) 8 states and 2 territories
Answer: b) — Australia has 6 states (NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania) and 2 mainland territories (ACT, Northern Territory).
Test yourself with real-format questions
Our practice tests cover all four categories with 385+ questions.
Start Free Practice TestHow to Study Effectively by Category
Different categories require different study approaches:
- Values: Focus on understanding concepts, not memorising words. Ask yourself "why is this important to Australian society?" for each value.
- Australia and Its People: Create a timeline of key dates. Associate each date with a visual or story to aid memory.
- Democratic Beliefs: Compare Australia's system to what you know from your home country — differences stick in memory.
- Government and the Law: Draw a diagram of the three levels of government and their responsibilities. Use our study guide for a structured approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the exact citizenship test questions published?
No. The Department of Home Affairs does not publish the exact questions used in the Australian Citizenship Test. However, all questions are based on the "Our Common Bond" booklet, so the topics and types of questions are well known and predictable.
How many questions do I need to get right to pass?
You need to answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly (75%) and get all 5 values questions right. If you miss even one values question, you fail regardless of your total score.
Do the questions change each year?
The question bank is periodically updated by the Department of Home Affairs, but the core topics remain consistent. The 2026 test covers the same four categories that have been tested for years. Always study from the latest version of Our Common Bond to stay current.
Can I study using only practice tests?
Practice tests are excellent for preparation, but you should also read the full Our Common Bond booklet. Practice tests help you identify weak areas, while the booklet provides the comprehensive knowledge base. Combine both approaches for best results.
Are the practice questions on CitizenshipPrep the same as the real test?
Our practice questions are written to match the style, difficulty, and format of the real Australian Citizenship Test. While they are not the actual government questions (which aren't published), they cover all the same topics from Our Common Bond and give you an accurate preparation experience.