Freedom of religion
Australia has no official religion, religious laws have no legal status, and religious practices must not break Australian law. Polygamy and forced marriage are illegal.
This is a values topic. You must answer every values question correctly to pass the real test.
What to remember
- There is no official religion, and religious practices must not break Australian law.
- Religious laws have no legal status in Australia.
- Polygamy and forced marriage are illegal; penalties include imprisonment.
- Religious intolerance is not acceptable.
Sample questions
Do religious laws have legal status in Australia?Show answer
- Yes, if both people agree to follow them
- Yes, for members of that religion
- No, religious laws have no legal status in Australia
No, religious laws have no legal status in Australia. Religious laws have no legal status in Australia. Australian law must be followed by everyone, including where it is different from religious laws.
Is polygamy (being married to more than one person at the same time) legal in Australia?Show answer
- Yes, if the marriages took place overseas
- No, it is against the law
- Yes, if your religion allows it
No, it is against the law. Some religious or cultural practices, such as polygamy and forced marriage, are against the law in Australia and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Is forced marriage legal in Australia?Show answer
- No, it is against the law and can result in imprisonment
- Yes, if the parents agree
- Yes, if it is a cultural tradition
No, it is against the law and can result in imprisonment. Forced marriage, where one or both people did not have a free choice, is against the law in Australia and can result in severe legal penalties, including imprisonment.
Source: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, p. 35. Read the full booklet on the Home Affairs website.