Freedoms and Equalities

**Our freedoms** **Freedom of speech and expression** Freedom of speech is a core Australian value and underpins our democratic system. People can say and write what they think, discuss ideas with others, criticise the government, protest peacefully and campaign to change laws — **so long as they obey Australian laws** at all times. Freedom of expression means people can express views through art, film, music and literature, and can meet in public or private for social or political discussion. **Freedom of association** The right to form and join associations to pursue common goals. People are free to join any legal organisation — political party, trade union, religious, cultural or social group. People can also decide **not** to join and cannot be forced to do so. Gatherings must be peaceful and not damage property. **Freedom of religion** Australia has a Judaeo-Christian heritage and public holidays on Christian days (Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day). However, the government is **secular** — it operates separately from churches or religious entities. **Australia has no official national religion**. People are free to follow any religion or no religion. Where there is a conflict between an Australian law and a religious practice, **Australian law prevails**. **Our equalities** **Gender equality** Men and women have equal rights in Australia. It is **against the law to discriminate** against a person because of their gender. **Equality of opportunity — a 'fair go'** Australians value equal opportunity — what is often called a **'fair go'**. What someone achieves in life should result from their talents, work and effort, rather than their wealth or background. There are no formal class distinctions in Australian society.