I will admit there are a few books that make me groan, even despair, but when the Australian Citizenship Test Practice Questions arrived in store, it made my blood boil. It also made me ashamed. The book contains a series of practice tests designed to help you 'pass the test and go on to become proud Australian citizens'.

Even if there was any validity in it at all, the questions are outrageous. Take for example: What percentage of land in Australia is considered suitable for agriculture? Duh? Or When is Wattle Day? Do you know what Wattle Day is?

My personal favourite though is this: What occurred in 1973 that resulted in the arrival in Australia of migrants from Vietnam, China and India? I didn't know so I checked: In 1967 the dismantling of the White Australia Policy began and in 1973 migration was placed on a totally non-discriminatory basis...

Oh, how far we have fallen...

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship website describes the test as 'an important part of ensuring that migrants have the capacity to fully participate in the Australian community as citizens and maximise the opportunities available to them in Australia. It promotes social cohesion and successful integration into the community.'

What a load of crap. This 'community' has evolved through the lives and labours of millions of people who came here for a better future for themselves and their families and who have made this country what is is today. Not to mention the people who were already here and are still struggling to overcome some of the 'integration' processes enforced upon them.

The test began on the 1 October 2007. It will be a serious source of shame in this country if it makes its first anniversary!