Slovenia and Australia each have a national identity, although quite different. A national identity includes but is not limited language, culture, religion, democracy and its institutions, and the rule of law. National identity is a contested concept and can invoke different responses. Part of a state’s national identity is conferred through citizenship. A state's legislation framework includes citizenship, immigration, rights and private international laws. These laws are used by a state to reinforce, underpin and strengthen its national identity. This thesis will discuss the public and private aspects of citizenship. The public constitutes the state developing laws for citizenship, immigration, rights and conflict of laws. The private constitutes those private activities undertaken by a citizen such as migrating from one state to another, and engaging other citizens in marriage and divorce. The rights of citizens also constitute the private as it enables a citizen protect themselves from other citizens and the state.