I send my warmest greetings to the many members of the Indian Australian community celebrating Indian Republic Day today.
Today's coinciding of Australian and Indian national days provides an opportunity at a national level to celebrate Australia and India's shared democratic heritage and deep cooperative links. At a community level it is also an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of Indian Australians in enriching our successful multicultural story.
Australia's longstanding relations with India are strengthened by the links that are formed through migration and citizenship. These links are ever growing, with over a quarter of all foreign arrivals to Australia since 2016 being from India. As measured in the 2021 Census, India is also the third largest country of birth, comprising 673,352 people in Australia who were born in India.
The diversity of Australia remains its core strength and I am proud that so many people of Indian ancestry have chosen to settle in Australia and build their future here. Dynamic and colourful Indian festivals have become part of many community events in Australia.
It is my privilege and honour as Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, to oversee the processes that welcome more people to this country, and celebrate our inclusive cultural, religious and linguistic diversity.
Amid the challenges of recent years, the contributions of Indian Australians to the prosperity of our nation has been immense. It is a reflection of your enthusiasm for building a better future for all Australians.
I wish you happy celebrations today, and continued success into the future.
