Mark Dreyfus QC MP, Federal Member for Isaacs, today welcomed over 100 new citizens as they took their Pledge of Commitment, at the City of Greater Dandenong's citizenship ceremony held as part of Australia Day celebrations.
Mark Dreyfus QC MP, Federal Member for Isaacs, today welcomed over 100 new citizens as they took their Pledge of Commitment, at the City of Greater Dandenong's citizenship ceremony held as part of Australia Day celebrations.
The new citizens are among 3,800 people from 105 countries who are taking part in celebrations in Victoria today.
"Becoming an Australian citizen is an important step that shows commitment and loyalty to this country," said Mr Dreyfus.
"On behalf of the Australian Government, I would like to welcome Greater Dandenong's newest citizens and wish them all the best for their life in Australia."
Australia Day is also an opportunity for Australians to affirm their commitment to Australia by making the Australian citizenship affirmation.
"I encourage all residents in our community to join in their local Australia Day celebrations," said Mr Dreyfus.
Speaking at today's ceremony at the Drum Theatre, Mr Dreyfus will talk about how Greater Dandenong is a tremendous example of a modern and harmonious multicultural society.
"Here in Greater Dandenong, our citizens come from over 150 different nationalities, who all contribute to the mosaic of Australia's multicultural society."
"I am proud to be part of a society that affords opportunity and equality to every individual."
Australia Day is the most popular day of the year to become a citizen, with around 430 special citizenship ceremonies being held across Australia today, hosted by the Immigration Department, local councils, and service and sporting associations including Tennis Australia, Cricket NSW and Melbourne Victory Football Club.
More than four and a half million people from 200 countries have chosen to call Australia home since the first citizenship ceremony in 1949.
