Rule of Law and democracy
All Australians are equal under the law, no one is above it, and the law applies to everyone whatever their background.
This is a values topic. You must answer every values question correctly to pass the real test.
What to remember
- All Australians are equal under the law; no one is above it.
- Obey the law at all times, even if no one is watching.
- Australian laws apply to everyone, whatever their background or culture.
- Compulsory voting shows how important it is to take part in elections.
Sample questions
What does the Rule of Law mean for Australians?Show answer
- Religious laws are equal to Australian laws
- People in power can choose which laws to follow
- All Australians are equal under the law and no person or group is above it
All Australians are equal under the law and no person or group is above it. Under the Rule of Law, all Australians are equal in relation to the law and no person or group is above the law.
Should you follow Australian law even when no one is watching?Show answer
- Only if you are an Australian citizen
- Yes, everybody should obey the law at all times
- No, only when police are present
Yes, everybody should obey the law at all times. In Australia, everybody should obey the law and not break it at any time, otherwise you will face penalties. You should follow the law even if no one is watching.
Do Australian laws apply to people from all backgrounds and cultures?Show answer
- No, people may follow the laws of their country of origin instead
- Yes, everyone must follow Australian laws regardless of background or culture
- Only to people born in Australia
Yes, everyone must follow Australian laws regardless of background or culture. Australian laws apply to all people in Australia. This means that regardless of your background or culture, you must follow Australian laws.
Source: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, p. 34. Read the full booklet on the Home Affairs website.