Australia’s symbols
Australian citizenship test study notes, summarised from page 15 of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet the test is based on.
- The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the official symbol of the Commonwealth; it represents national unity and identifies Commonwealth authority and property.
- Coat of Arms: the shield represents the six states and federation; a kangaroo and an emu support it; a gold Commonwealth Star sits above; the background is golden wattle.
- National flower: the golden wattle — grows mainly in south-eastern Australia, golden flowers in spring. Each state/territory has its own floral emblem.
- National colours: green and gold (the colours of the golden wattle). The uniforms of national sports teams are usually green and gold.
- National gemstone: the opal — in Aboriginal legend, a rainbow touched the earth and created its colours.
Our Common Bond, p. 15
Sample practice questions
Try these, then check your answer. They’re our practice questions, not the real test questions.
1. What is the official symbol of the Commonwealth of Australia?
- The golden wattle flower
- The Commonwealth Coat of Arms
- The opal, our national gemstone
Show answer
Answer: B. The Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the official symbol, representing our national unity.
Our Common Bond, p. 15
2. Where does the golden wattle mainly grow?
- South-eastern Australia
- Northern Australia
- Western Australia’s deserts
Show answer
Answer: A. South-eastern Australia
The golden wattle grows mainly in south-eastern Australia.
Our Common Bond, p. 15
3. When does the golden wattle have many golden yellow flowers?
- In autumn
- In spring
- In summer
Show answer
Answer: B. In spring
The golden wattle is a small tree with bright green leaves and many golden yellow flowers in spring.
Our Common Bond, p. 15
Practise all 16 questions on this topic