Australian Citizenship
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 we have been born or where we have decided to make our home.
Choosing to become an Australian citizen is a very important expression of commitment to being part of Australia's future and Golden Plains Shire places a high importance on Australian Citizenship and hosts ceremonies approximately 4 times a year.
So, if you are a permanent resident and you have lived in Australia for two or more years, you may be eligible to apply for citizenship.
To become a citizen, you will need to complete the following steps:
- Confirm that you are eligible;
- Get an application kit (available from Golden Plains Customer Service Centres, post offices or by contacting the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs on 131 880);
- Fill in and lodge the form and pay the application fee (currently $120). Reduced fees are available to eligible applicants;
- Attend a short interview;
- Find out when your citizenship ceremony will be;
- Attend the ceremony, make the pledge and receive your Citizenship certificate.
The role of Local Government Councils is to confer Australian Citizenship once the application is approved by the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs. Golden Plains Shire Council receives certificates on a monthly basis from the Department and averages approximately 35 conferrals a year.
Citizenship ceremonies are warm, friendly events where you celebrate becoming an Australian citizen. You might want to invite your family and friends to be part of this important step you are taking, and to celebrate your Citizenship with you.
Citizenship Information
Phone: 131 880
http://www.citizenship.gov.au/
You may also contact Golden Plains Shire on 5220 7111.
