The City of Ballarat proudly welcomed 87 new citizens at a special ceremony held on Australian Citizenship Day, Wednesday 17 September.
Residents took the pledge of commitment, marking the final step in their journey to becoming Australian citizens.
The conferees come from 21 countries around the world including Britain, China, Ethiopia, Fiji, India, Iran, Ireland, Kenya, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Samoa, Sri Lanka, South Sudan, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the occasion was both deeply personal for each individual and significant for the city as a whole.
"Australian Citizenship Day is an opportunity to celebrate what it means to be an Australian and to recognise the many ways new citizens enrich our community," she said.
"It's a time to reflect on the shared values we all uphold: respect, freedom, fairness and a commitment to participate in and strengthen our communities."
"We are proud to officially welcome our newest citizens, who bring with them unique experiences, traditions, and talents that add to the diversity and vibrancy of Ballarat."
The Australian Government introduced Australian Citizenship Day in 2001 to highlight and celebrate the role citizenship plays in shaping the nation. Across the country, ceremonies on this day acknowledge the contributions of all citizens, new and old, to our local communities.
The City of Ballarat hosts several citizenship ceremonies each year, with the Australian Citizenship Day ceremony holding special significance as part of a nationwide celebration.
