Australian citizenship test: Constitution and the Crown practice questions

The Constitution took effect on 1 January 1901. A referendum needs most voters in most states and most voters nationwide. The King is Head of State; the Governor-General represents the King.

Question 1

On what date did the Australian Constitution come into effect?

  1. 26 January 1788, when the First Fleet arrived
  2. 1 January 1901
  3. 26 January 1901, one Australia Day after federation

Answer: 1 January 1901

The Constitution was passed as part of a British Act in 1900 and came into effect on 1 January 1901, when the colonies became the Commonwealth of Australia. 26 January 1788 is the First Fleet, not federation.

Question 2

Which court has the ultimate power to apply and interpret Australian law?

  1. The Cabinet, meeting with the Prime Minister
  2. The High Court of Australia
  3. The Australian Electoral Commission

Answer: The High Court of Australia

The Constitution established the High Court, which has the ultimate power to apply and interpret Australian laws. The Cabinet is part of the executive. The Electoral Commission runs federal elections and is not a court.

Question 3

Who is Australia's Head of State?

  1. The Prime Minister, who leads the government
  2. The King of Australia
  3. The Chief Justice of the High Court

Answer: The King of Australia

Australia is a constitutional monarchy: the King is Head of State and must act under the Constitution, and he does not run the government day to day. The Prime Minister leads the government. The Governor-General represents the King in Australia. The question asks for the office, not the name of the person who holds it.