Australia toughens up citizenship test

Australia has unveiled plans to put "Australian values" at the heart of tougher requirements to gain citizenship, including competent English, belief in gender equality and a four-year qualification period.


Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said Australia was an "extraordinary nation".

"We're not defined by race or religion or culture, as many other nations are.

"We're defined by commitment to common values, political values, the rule of law, democracy, freedom, mutual respect, equality for men and women," he told reporters.

"These fundamental values are what make us Australian. Our citizenship process should reflect that.

"So today we are announcing changes to strengthen citizenship, to make for a stronger Australia, stronger citizenship, stronger citizens."

The move came against a background of growing populist pressure and a resurgence of the anti-immigration One Nation party led by Pauline Hanson.

Candidates for citizenship will under the new rules be required to be permanent residents for four years against one year today.
 [rte.ie]
20/4/17