In celebration of Australia Day more than 16,000 people have been invited to become new Australian citizens at over 400 ceremonies across Australia.
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke said more people become Australian citizens on our National Day than any other day of the year.
"Australia Day holds special significance for hundreds of thousands of people who previously made the Australian citizenship pledge on this day and became full and formal members of the Australian community."
"While the current COVID-19 environment may result in smaller numbers attending some in-person citizenship ceremonies, or a move to an online format, ceremonies will continue to take place across the nation," Minister Hawke said.
"Citizenship ceremonies are an important part of our national celebrations, providing local councils and community organisations an opportunity to welcome new citizens and celebrate the democratic values that make us proud to be Australians," Minister Hawke said.
"Choosing to become an Australian citizen means embracing the privileges, rights, and responsibilities that come with Australian citizenship, and committing to our national values that are based on respect, freedom, democracy and equality".
Prime Minister Scott Morrison will preside over the National Citizenship and Flag Raising Ceremony in Canberra where he will welcome our newest citizens, televised live on the ABC.
In NSW, the Governor-General, His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd), will preside over a ceremony in Crookwell hosted by Upper Lachlan Council.
In the Greater Western Sydney region, Minister Hawke will preside over a citizenship ceremony at the City of Parramatta Council.
The Minister for Home Affairs, Karen Andrews, State Governors, councils and community groups will also host ceremonies across the country to formally welcome new citizens into their respective states and territories.
"Today, as we celebrate Australia Day and welcome Australia's newest citizens, I encourage all Australians to reflect on our national identity, which is not defined by race, religion or culture but by our shared Australian values."
"On behalf of the Australian Government and the people of Australia, I congratulate all new citizens as they mark the end of their migration journey and the start of their new lives as Australians," Minister Hawke said.
For more information, about Australian citizenship visit www.citizenship.gov.au.
