Australian Citizen vs. Australian National

Attribute	Australian Citizen	Australian National
Eligibility to vote in federal elections	Yes	No
Eligibility to hold an Australian passport	Yes	Yes
Right to work and live in Australia indefinitely	Yes	Yes
Eligibility to serve on a jury	Yes	No
Eligibility to run for public office	Yes	No

Introduction

When it comes to the legal status of individuals in Australia, there are two main categories: Australian citizens and Australian nationals. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two that are important to understand. In this article, we will explore the attributes of Australian citizens and Australian nationals, highlighting their rights, responsibilities, and privileges.

Citizenship

Australian citizens are individuals who have been granted citizenship by the Australian government. Citizenship is typically acquired by birth, descent, or through the process of naturalization. Australian citizens have the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely, as well as to vote in federal and state elections. They also have the right to apply for an Australian passport and receive consular assistance while abroad.

Australian nationals, on the other hand, are individuals who are considered to be nationals of Australia but do not hold Australian citizenship. This category includes individuals who hold permanent residency visas, as well as certain other categories of individuals who have a close connection to Australia. Australian nationals do not have the same rights and privileges as Australian citizens, such as the right to vote or hold an Australian passport.

Residency

One of the key differences between Australian citizens and Australian nationals is their residency status. Australian citizens have the right to live in Australia indefinitely, regardless of how much time they spend outside of the country. They do not need to meet any residency requirements in order to maintain their citizenship status. Australian citizens can also sponsor family members for permanent residency in Australia.

On the other hand, Australian nationals may have residency restrictions placed on them depending on their visa status. For example, individuals holding temporary visas may have restrictions on how long they can stay in Australia or what type of work they can do. Australian nationals who are not permanent residents may also have limitations on sponsoring family members for visas.

Employment

Australian citizens have the right to work in any occupation in Australia without the need for a visa or work permit. They also have access to government benefits such as unemployment benefits and healthcare. Australian citizens are protected by Australian labor laws and have the right to join a union and participate in collective bargaining.

On the other hand, Australian nationals may have restrictions on the type of work they can do depending on their visa status. For example, individuals holding temporary visas may only be allowed to work in certain occupations or for a limited period of time. Australian nationals who are not permanent residents may also not have access to government benefits such as unemployment benefits.

Education

Australian citizens have the right to access free public education in Australia, including primary and secondary schooling. They also have access to government-subsidized higher education through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP). Australian citizens can study at any Australian university and are eligible for student loans and scholarships.

Australian nationals may also have access to public education in Australia, depending on their visa status. For example, individuals holding certain types of visas may be eligible for free public schooling. However, Australian nationals who are not permanent residents may not be eligible for government-subsidized higher education or student loans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Australian citizens and Australian nationals are both considered to be nationals of Australia, there are significant differences in their rights, responsibilities, and privileges. Australian citizens have the full rights and privileges of citizenship, including the right to live and work in Australia indefinitely, vote in elections, and access government benefits. Australian nationals, on the other hand, may have restrictions on their residency, employment, and education rights depending on their visa status. It is important for individuals to understand these differences in order to navigate the Australian legal system effectively.