Tuesday, 25 November 2008
Changes to citizenship test welcomed
Changes to the citizenship test announced by the federal government on the weekend were today welcomed by national Race Discrimination Commissioner Tom Calma who said increasing the transparency of the test would make it fairer for new citizens.
Commissioner Calma said the Australian Human Rights Commission had actively pursued improvements to the citizenship process since it was introduced by the previous federal government in October 2007.
“The Australian Human Rights Commission has always maintained that the emphasis should be on more inclusive methods, such as education rather than formal testing. While the government is retaining the test, the increased emphasis on education will go a long way towards helping new citizens participate fully in the social, economic and cultural life of the nation,” Mr Calma said.
“We also support the proposed changes that make it clear to applicants that the level of English required under the test, basic English, is no more than is required to live independently in the wider Australian community."
Mr Calma also supported a greater focus on the democratic principles contained in the Pledge of Commitment.
“Many of these principles are fundamental human rights such as the right to non-discrimination, the right to equality, freedom of speech, and freedom of religion," he said.
"I urge the government to follow up these recommendations with an extensive program of human rights education, including information on the legal avenues available to new citizens to protect their rights."
Media contact: Louise McDermott (02) 9284 9851 or 0419 258 597.
