The Shoalhaven welcomed 38 new citizens from 18 different countries at a special citizenship ceremony in Nowra today, coinciding with the nation's annual Australian Citizenship Day.
Australian Citizenship Day is held every year on 17 September and provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning and importance of Australian citizenship, and the rights and responsibilities that come with it.
Acting Mayor Peter Wilkins said holding the ceremony on Australian Citizenship Day made the occasion even more special for the new citizens, their families and guests.
"It is always a privilege to welcome new citizens to the Shoalhaven, and it is particularly fitting to do so on Australian Citizenship Day," Cr Wilkins said.
"Today's ceremony recognised not only the commitment our newest citizens have made to Australia, but also the valuable contribution they make to our community.
"Our community is strengthened by the different cultures, experiences and perspectives that people bring, and together we can continue building a bright future for the Shoalhaven," he said.
The countries represented by the new citizens included Canada, Chile, China, England, Germany, India, New Zealand, Peru, the Philippines, Spain, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Vietnam, Iran, Namibia and Lithuania.
Among the group, one person was born in Australia but had not automatically gained citizenship at birth, while the nationality of two other participants was unknown.
Since it was first celebrated in 2001, Australian Citizenship Day has become a key moment for communities across the nation to welcome new citizens and reinforce the importance of active citizenship.
The day was established by the Australian Government in response to a 2000 report by the Australian Citizenship Council, emphasising its importance in fostering community and national identity.
