Religion

One of the great things about Australia is its religious tolerance. Australia has no official state religion and people are free to practise any religion they choose, as long they obey the law. Australians are also free not to have a religion.

Australia is a predominantly Christian country, with around 64 per cent of all Australians identifying as Christians. However, most other major religious faiths are also practised, reflecting Australia's culturally diverse society.

Religious freedom is safeguarded by section 116 of the Australian Constitution, which prohibits the federal government from making any law establishing any religion, imposing any religious observance, or prohibiting the free exercise of any religion. Individuals are free to express a diversity of views, as long as they do not incite religious hatred.

The Australian Government is also committed to encouraging mutual respect, understanding and tolerance among different religions and cultures in Australia and across the region. Australia has fostered regional interfaith cooperation through its involvement in the Regional Interfaith Dialogue-a process which Australia co-sponsors with Indonesia, New Zealand and the Philippines. The dialogue brings together leaders from the many faiths in the region to share experiences and identify ways to promote peace and understanding. The first dialogue was held in Indonesia in 2004, and two other dialogues have since been held (in the Philippines in 2006 and New Zealand in 2007). Cambodia will host the fourth Regional Interfaith Dialogue in 2008.