Australia Day - Big day for citizenship ceremonies
26 January 2004
More than 9000 people will become Australia's newest citizens today in more than 200 local government councils events across Australia, Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Gary Hardgrave, said today.
Thousands more will be able to affirm their commitment to Australia by participating in Affirmation ceremonies, organised by local government councils.
"The Australian Affirmation initiative gives all Australians, not only our newest citizens, a chance to express their loyalty to Australia and its people," Mr Hardgrave said.
Mr Hardgrave said the Australian Government valued the central role played by local government in the conduct of Citizenship and Affirmation ceremonies.
"It has been a successful partnership that has served the nation well.
"I thank all conferees from every corner of the globe for their commitment to the Australian community. Many have walked an extraordinary international road already, before making their home here.
"Whether you have 5,000 years of family history, have been a citizen or part of this country for five generations or five years, today is a great opportunity to formally affirm your commitment to Australia, " said Mr Hardgrave.
The President of the Australian Local Government Association, Councillor Mike Montgomery, said the Affirmation was a great opportunity for all Australians to affirm their loyalty to their country.
Councillor Montgomery said that there were few activities more satisfying for a Mayor or Shire President than presiding over a Citizenship or Affirmation ceremony.
"By conferring citizenship we provide a formal welcome to those who have come to our country, and the Affirmation provides an ideal opportunity for everyone to declare their commitment to our great nation.
"I congratulate the Minister for his commitment to encouraging tolerance, democratic values, respect and mateship through the Affirmation, " Councillor Montgomery said.
This year the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs and the National Australia Day Council developed a campaign to promote the Australian Affirmation, aimed at encouraging all Australians to reflect on the Affirmation, its values and what Australian citizenship means to them.
Contact:
- Minister's Office
- Rudi Stachow: 0418 546 396 or
Anthony Moate: 0402 415 167 - ALGA
- Rohan Greenland: 0412 85 9434
