On 26 August 2007 the resource book Becoming an Australian Citizen was released in draft form.  The content of the book had been the subject of speculation in the media for some time.  Below we provide a summary of the book so that potential test applicants can know what to expect.

The book is presented in four parts.  The first summarises the main privileges and responsibilities of being an Australian citizen.  The key privileges are voting, holding a passport and being able to pass citizenship on to your children.  The main responsibilities are compulsory voting, serving on a jury and participating in the life of the country.

This part also sets out ten important values in modern Australia.  These values focus on freedoms enjoyed by citizens, respect for others and that the principle that all people are treated equally.

The second part is the largest.  It covers a wide variety of topics as it traces the development of modern Australia.  It begins by summarising the history of human life in the country: from the arrival of indigenous people, followed by European settlement and the wave of immigration after World War 2.  The make-up of today’s population is summarised, as are the nation’s symbols and traditions.

The country’s history is then covered in more detail.  The hardships and difficulties experienced by Aboriginal people since European settlement are covered in detail.  Australia’s military history is discussed in depth, especially the Gallipoli invasion and the growth of the ANZAC tradition.  The development of the nation’s economy is discussed, as is the birth of the modern government.  The exploits and successes of Australia’s artists and sportspeople are also summarised.

The third part of Becoming an Australian Citizen looks at government in Australia.  It explains the role of the constitution in setting the rules of government and the differences between federal, state and local government.  It also sets out the key positions in the government such as the Prime Minister and the Governor-General.

The fourth and final part explains how the citizenship test works and its role in the applying for Australian citizenship.

The draft resource book is currently open for consultation and will be finalised later in 2007 once the legislation required to enact the test has passed through the Australian federal parliament.