Freedom of speech and association
Speech is free within the law and peaceful protest is part of democracy, but promoting violence, making false allegations or encouraging people to break the law is not acceptable.
This is a values topic. You must answer every values question correctly to pass the real test.
What to remember
- Speech is free within the law; peaceful protest is an essential part of democracy.
- Promoting violence against any group is never acceptable. Making false allegations or encouraging law-breaking is illegal.
- You can join or leave any legal group freely, and no one can force you either way.
Sample questions
Can newspapers, television and radio in Australia express ideas freely?Show answer
- Only if they support the government
- No, the government must approve all content
- Yes, they have the same freedom of speech as individuals, within the law
Yes, they have the same freedom of speech as individuals, within the law. People in Australia are free to say and write what they think about any topic. Newspapers, television and radio outlets have the same freedom.
Why are Australians allowed to peacefully protest against the actions of the government?Show answer
- They are not allowed to protest
- Because protests can lawfully include damaging property
- Tolerance of peaceful public protest is an essential part of democracy
Tolerance of peaceful public protest is an essential part of democracy. Australians are allowed to peacefully protest against the actions of the government, because tolerance of peaceful public protest is an essential part of democracy.
Is it acceptable to promote violence against a group of people because of their religion?Show answer
- No, it is never acceptable and is against Australian values and law
- Yes, if it is posted online only
- Yes, under freedom of speech
No, it is never acceptable and is against Australian values and law. It is never acceptable to promote violence against another person or group, such as because of their culture, ethnicity, religion or background. It is against Australian values and law.
Source: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, p. 35. Read the full booklet on the Home Affairs website.