Australia is a multicultural society, with migrants coming from many different cultural and religious backgrounds. Australians have many common values ​​and principles that unite them. They live by the same laws. Different religions and cultural practices coexist with the country's secular legal system. All Australians have the right to express their culture and beliefs. At the same time, everyone is expected to uphold the principles and shared values ​​and freedoms that support Australia's way of life.

Dealing with government officials

When you arrive in Australia, you will have to deal with officials from a number of government services. Officials are bound by strict rules to provide services in a professional and fair manner. Do not offer money to an official thinking that you will receive better service. This is against the law. Offering money or any form of bribe can result in criminal action being taken against you.

Australian Police

The police in Australia are employees of the government, who help keep the peace and promote safety in the community. Each state and territory has its own police force and the Australian Federal Police is the national police. Laws vary in each state and territory. The police prevent and detect crime, protect life and property and enforce the criminal law. The Australian Police Force is not part of the military. You should not be afraid of the police in Australia, but remember to respect them and listen to and follow their instructions at all times.

Australian Laws

Australian laws apply to Australian citizens and residents. The Australian justice system is independent of the government. If you have any questions about Australian laws, be sure to ask your caseworker or mover so they can help you correctly understand how the laws apply to you and your family. One of the reasons the laws are in place is to keep you and your family safe. Knowing some basic laws will help you adapt to your new life in Australia.

Religion and law

Australia has no official or state religion and all Australians are free to follow any religion they choose. Religions practised in Australia include Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and many others. People can follow religious customs and rituals as long as they do not conflict with Australian laws. Religious laws are not recognised in Australian law and have no legal status in Australia.

Violence and the law

It is against the law to use violence against another person in Australia. Assault is a criminal offence and carries severe penalties. It is against the law to be violent towards anyone – man, woman, child or family member.

Domestic and family violence

The Australian Government does not tolerate domestic and family violence under any circumstances. Domestic and family violence are offences against the law. A person committing these offences can go to jail, whether they are a man or a woman. Domestic and family violence includes behaviour or threats that are intended to control a male or female partner or child by intimidating them or threatening their safety and wellbeing. The behaviour or threats can be directed at an adult, child or property and can include slapping, hitting, choking, not giving a partner or family members needed money, isolating a partner from friends and family, insulting, constantly criticising or threatening children. There are culturally sensitive services in Australia that can help.

Child abuse and the law

Under Australian law children are protected from abuse or violence. This abuse includes physical, mental or sexual abuse. All forms of child abuse are serious crimes in Australia. In some cases, a child suffering from abuse may be taken away from their family by the government for their safety. If you know a child is suffering from abuse or you suspect a child is suffering from abuse, you must report it to the police under the law. It is not acceptable in Australia to discipline children by spanking or hitting them hard. It is very important that parents learn ways to discipline their children without using violence. Parents can get additional support to care for their children from friends, other family members, community centres and child care centres. Information and advice on parenting is also available from councils, social workers, counselling professionals, kindergartens and schools, as well as on websites such as the Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Drugs and the law

Although we think of some drugs as legal and some as illegal, many drugs are somewhere in between. Some substances are legal but have laws restricting their use or sale. Others are illegal to use, possess or produce. Importing or bringing drugs into Australia is a serious offence and penalties include a prison sentence. Other offences include possessing, growing, harvesting, selling or using illegal drugs. There are also laws prohibiting driving under the influence of drugs and random testing centres managed by the police can legally ask you to stop while driving to give a saliva sample for testing. Laws and penalties vary between each state and territory. Care must also be taken when driving after taking prescription drugs.