Australia's Department of Home Affairs has clarified that permanent residents, despite enjoying many benefits, are barred from five key privileges that remain exclusive to citizens. These restrictions affect passports, voting, student loans, government employment, and re-entry rights.
What Permanent Residents Can Enjoy
Permanent residents in Australia have the right to live indefinitely, work and study freely, and access Medicare, the national health scheme. They can also apply for property loans, sponsor relatives, and travel in and out of the country as long as their travel facility is valid. Additional benefits include free English tuition, the right to work in New Zealand, and potential eligibility for the Australian Defence Force.
The Five Exclusive Citizen Privileges
1. Australian Passport
Only citizens can hold an Australian passport. Permanent residents must use their country of origin's passport for international travel.
2. Voting in Federal Elections
Permanent residency does not grant voting rights in Australian Government elections. An exception exists for those enrolled as British subjects before 26 January 1984.
3. Government Student Loans
Permanent residents cannot access government student loans, so higher education must be funded through other means.
4. Ongoing Government Employment
Jobs within the Australian Government are not available to permanent residents, limiting public sector career options.
5. Automatic Re-entry Rights
Unlike citizens, permanent residents do not have an automatic right of re-entry. They must ensure their travel facility remains valid before returning, or risk being unable to board a flight.
Pathway to Citizenship
For those seeking to close this gap, permanent residency serves as a pathway. Eligible residents can apply for citizenship, which unlocks all five privileges. According to the Department of Home Affairs, applicants must meet residency requirements before applying.
