Part 2
Our freedoms
Speech, expression, association and religion — and where the limits sit.
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The yarn
- Freedom of speech is a core Australian value and underpins our democratic system. People can say and write what they think and discuss ideas with others — including criticising the government.
- Australians can gather to protest against a government action or an organisation, but gatherings must be peaceful and must not injure any person or damage property.
- Freedom of association is the right to form and join associations — political parties, trade unions, religious, cultural or social groups. People can also decide not to join, and cannot be forced to.
- Australia has no official national religion. People are free to follow any religion they choose, or none at all. The government is separate from any religion.
- Religious practices must not break Australian laws. Where there is a conflict between an Australian law and a religious practice, Australian law prevails.