Approximately 77 per cent of Australians who took part in the census identified with a form of religious belief. Over half of the respondents identified themselves as either an Anglican or Catholic. In Australia freedom of thought, conscience and religion, and its manifestation, are matters left largely to individuals. Little legislation exists to impose restrictions on the exercise of such freedoms, either by adults or children, nor is there any governmental coercion to change or renounce any view or belief. Legislation which exists in regard to freedom of religion and freedom to manifest religion is outlined below.
Some minor limitations do exist on the freedom of persons to exercise their beliefs fully.
Constitutional guarantee 335. The Australian Constitution does not contain a specific head of legislative power to enable the Federal Government to legislate directly on the subject of religion or belief. Section 116 is directed only to the Federal Government and does not inhibit the power to legislate on matters of religion and belief in the States. State law in relation to religious freedom is outlined below. Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission 337.