New citizens come to the Bass Coast from all over the world
BASS Coast’s newest Australian citizens pledged their allegiance to Australia at the Bass Coast Citizenship Ceremony held last week at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club. Coming from all over the world to Australia, from Cuba to Canada and Portugal to...
BASS Coast’s newest Australian citizens pledged their allegiance to Australia at the Bass Coast Citizenship Ceremony held last week at the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club.
Coming from all over the world to Australia, from Cuba to Canada and Portugal to the Philippines, it was an emotional occasion for the 49 new Australian citizens.
Combined they hailed from Afghanistan, United States, Britain, Philippines, Portugal, Cuba, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, England, Vietnam, People’s Democratic Republic of Laos, New Zealand, Netherlands, South Africa, India, Colombia, Ecuador, Cuba, Papua New Guinea, Nepal, Moldova, Myanmar, Russian Federation, Vietnam, China and the People’s Republic of China.
Welcoming the new citizens from across the globe, Federal Member for Monash Mary Aldred MP said they had chosen the best region, in the best country on earth.
“Australian citizenship is a common bond, I’m proud to represent you as your Federal member, and I’m always here to help.”
Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Tony Burke MP sent a congratulatory message.
“In a few moments’ time, Australia becomes an even better nation.
“When you make the citizenship pledge you take on the privileges and responsibilities of Australian citizenship. From that moment, your journey and heritage will become part of our shared Australian story.
“Australia welcomes you as a full member of one of the most diverse nations on earth where our citizenship is a bond which unites us all. Australia welcomes you and everything you bring to Australia.
Today your new nation says to you welcome home.”
Ms Aldred presented the citizens with a personal gift, a personalised letter, Australia’s constitution booklet, an Australian flag and an Australian native flower mix.
State Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale MP presented certificates, a 2025 citizenship coin and an Australian native plant to each new citizen, including nine children who received their own certificate, coin and a small kangaroo.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the national anthem Advance Australia Fair was sung with considerable gusto before a light supper was shared giving everyone the chance to meet and celebrate with the other new citizens and their families.
A citizenship ceremony is the final step for most people in becoming an Australian citizens.
Citizenship ceremonies are conducted under the authority of the Australian Government minister responsible for citizenship matters. To find out how to become an Australian Citizen go to the
Department of Home Affairs website or phone 13 18 80.
