Nicola Berkovic; 2211/08
The Rudd Government will dump John Howard’s citizenship test for migrants and replace it with a new, simpler test based on Australia’s democratic values rather than obscure historical or sporting facts. Immigration Minister Chris Evans will today announce a major overhaul of the test, accepting almost all of the recommendations made by a review led by Australian diplomat Richard Woolcott. In a scathing critique, the review found the present test to be “flawed, intimidating to some and discriminatory” and in need of reform. The new test will be based on the five-line Pledge of Commitment recited by new citizens, which recognises Australia’s democratic beliefs and laws, and the rights and liberties of citizens.
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24688148-2702,00.html
Tags: Australia, Human Rights, Migrants & Refugees