Mateship
Definition
A core Australian value emphasizing friendship, loyalty, mutual support, and treating others as equals regardless of background.
Explanation
Mateship is one of the most distinctive Australian values, reflecting the importance of friendship, loyalty, and looking out for one another. The concept arose from Australia's frontier history and continues to define Australian culture and social relationships. Mateship emphasizes equality and the idea that anyone deserves respect and support. In Australian society, mateship extends beyond personal friendships to encompass a broader sense of community responsibility and fairness to all people.
Why this matters for your test
Mateship is a fundamental Australian value that citizenship applicants must understand and embrace. The citizenship test assesses whether applicants recognize and accept this core aspect of Australian identity.
Source: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond (2025)