More than 300 people from 37 countries have taken the pledge to become Australian citizens across two special ceremonies hosted by Redland City Council to mark Australian Citizenship Day.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty, who was presiding officer at both ceremonies on 17 September, welcomed the new citizens and encouraged them to embrace the many opportunities on offer in Australia.
“These ceremonies were particularly significant as they were held on Australian Citizenship Day, where we reflect on the meaning of being an Australian, our shared values and history, and the many privileges and freedoms we are afforded in this wonderful country,” she said.
“While we may have different backgrounds, life experiences and languages, Australian citizenship is a bond that unites us all and welcoming new citizens helps to enrich the cultural and social fabric of our community.
“The new citizens welcomed at this week’s Redlands Coast ceremonies hailed from 37 countries, including Nepal, China, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Zambia, Egypt, and Malaysia.
“This is a great demonstration of the multiculturalism that exists in our community and indeed right across the country, where more than half of all Australians were either born overseas or have a parent who was.
“We are proud of this cultural diversity on Redlands Coast and warmly welcome our new citizens and their families to enjoy everything our naturally wonderful city has to offer.”
The Acting Mayor said citizenship was a great privilege and represented a life-long commitment to the nation’s shared values of freedom, equal opportunity, democracy, and respect.
“Whether a citizen by birth or by choice, we all have a duty to uphold these values and should take pride in what it means to be Australian,” she said.
“I welcome our new citizens, congratulate them for taking this step, and wish them all the very best for the next chapter of their lives on Redlands Coast.”
For information about Redland City Australian citizenship ceremonies, please visit Council’s website.
