Citizenship Ceremonies
Australian citizenship symbolises our unity as a nation. It represents commitment to Australia and its people, the values we share and our common future. It also symbolises the sense of belonging to the country where we have been born or where we have decided to make our home.
Becoming an Australian citizen is something to celebrate. Citizenship ceremonies mark this important milestone in the lives of new citizens.
Citizenship ceremonies have an important symbolic role because they formally welcome new citizens from many cultures into the Australian family.
The ceremony is a formal part of the citizenship process. You become an Australian citizen on the date you attend the citizenship ceremony and make the Pledge of commitment to Australia. Usually, ceremonies are hosted by local government councils in a town hall or other building of significance. People wishing to become Australian citizens are now required to sit a Citizenship test. Once they have passed that test, the application process can progress. The Department of Immigration does travel to the north of our State - Broome, Derby and Kununurra to conduct Citizenship tests however this can take quite some time as they will only visit if numbers justify them coming. It is essential that any person wishing to sit a test make an appointment with the Department on Freecall:
131-880 or Ph: (08) 9415-9142. The alternative is to sit the test in Port Hedland or Perth. If you pass your test, you will be advised by the Department of Immigration and then you can make formal application for Citizenship. Similarly, the Department will advise if you fail your test and you may make another appointment to re-sit the test.
Once your application for citizenship has been approved, you will receive a letter with details of your citizenship ceremony. Generally it can take up to a few months, depending on where you live. If you need to attend a citizenship ceremony by a particular date, please advise your local office of the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA), in writing.
You are most welcome to share this memorable occasion with relatives and friends. You will receive details about your citizenship ceremony well in advance so that you can invite them.
Ceremonies are simple and dignified occasions. They can vary slightly but the main elements are: - Official welcome
- An address by a special guest or the City/Town/Shire Mayor or CEO
- Pledge of commitment to Australia
- Presentation of certificates of Australian citizenship
- Presentation of a gift to all new citizens
Council conducts Citizenship ceremonies on behalf of the Commonwealth. Ceremonies can be arranged when required in Derby. Please contact the Chief Executive Officer's Secretary on (08) 9191 0999 or via email at paceo@sdwk.wa.gov.au for further information. Application forms are available at the Shire Office in Derby.
Documents
| File Type | File Size | File Name | File Description |  | 168kb | Australian National Anthem | Words and music for Advance Australia Fair - Australia's National Anthem |
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