Become AuggieStudy / Part 2: Australia's democratic beliefs, rights and liberties
Freedom of speech, expression and association
- Free speech is the base of our democracy
- You can criticise the government and protest peacefully
- Free expression covers art, film, music and writing
- You can join any legal group, or choose not to
- Nobody can be forced to join a group
- Protests must be peaceful, with no injury or damage
- All freedoms operate within the law
| Freedom | Lets you | But |
|---|---|---|
| Speech | Say and write what you think, criticise the government | Must obey the law |
| Expression | Share views through art, film, music, literature | Must respect others' freedoms |
| Association | Join or not join any legal group; protest | Protests must be peaceful, no injury or damage |
Key facts
- Freedom of speech underpins the democratic system.
- People may criticise the government and protest peacefully.
- Expression includes art, film, music and literature.
- Freedom of association: join any legal organisation, or choose not to.
- No one can be forced to join an organisation.
- Protests must be peaceful, with no injury or property damage.
- All freedoms must be exercised within the law.