Tougher Australian citizenship test on the cards, says Immigration Minister

"My view is people who don't embrace these tangible values shouldn't expect automatic citizenship," Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said.

How the new Australian citizenship test will be after 15 November 2020

How the new Australian citizenship test will be after 15 November 2020 Source: AAP

A tougher citizenship test could be on the cards for migrants wanting to become Australians.

Immigration Minister Peter Dutton said revamping the test was a debate worth having" as the federal government looks at measures to prevent terrorists from exploiting migration path ways.
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Mr Dutton flagged he wants to see greater focus on people's ability to integrate into Australian society - an individual's willingness to learn English, educate their children and employment prospects or potential welfare dependence.

"My view is people who don't embrace these tangible values shouldn't expect automatic citizenship," he told The Australian newspaper.

The controversial test was brought in by the Howard government in 2007 and covered Australia's history, sporting greats, government, geography and traditions.

The Rudd government tweaked the test two years later to cover civic duty and responsibilities.

Topics include the significance of Anzac Day, the role of the governor-general, laws and government, and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.

Potential citizens must answer correctly at least 15 of the 20 questions to pass - up from 60 per cent under the old test.

Many are exempt from sitting the test, including people younger than 18 and older than 60 years of age and people who have impaired vision or hearing.

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Published 3 January 2017 10:20am
Updated 8 March 2017 11:10am
By Mosiqi Acharya


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