Acting Prime Minister Mathias Cormann has backed a proposal for school students and new migrants to take a pledge of loyalty, saying it is important they are aware of Australia's history, culture and values.

A US-style pledge as part of a broader civics program is being pitched by Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton.

Mr Cormann says there is an opportunity to improve civics education, including making sure school children are taught about Australia's history and values.

"I think it's quite important for all Australians to be aware and conscious of our history, our culture and values," he told reporters in Canberra on Thursday.

It's "quite right" that new migrants and Australians show loyalty to the nation, he said.

The government would work with schools to determine what form any pledge would take under Mr Dutton's proposal.

Labor's Anthony Albanese was less supportive of the idea.

"You've got to identify what the problem is before you look for the solution," he told ABC radio.

Australia already has the acknowledgement of country and the national anthem that is sung in schools, he said.