The final step in the journey to become an Australian Citizen, for most people is to make the Australian Citizenship Pledge at an Australian Citizenship ceremony.
How to become an Australian Citizen
On 12 September 2007, the Australian Parliament passed the Australian Citizenship Amendment (Citizenship Testing) Bill 2007. From 1 October 2007, the majority of people are required to pass a test before they apply for Australian Citizenship by conferral. Application forms for Australian Citizenship and Test Resources and Practice Test(s) can be found on the website.
Further information relating to citizenships is made available from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection website or by calling the Australian Citizenship line on 13 18 80.
The steps
Once you have received your confirmation from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection approving your Australian Citizenship, you need to then contact your nominated Council to make arrangements for the presentation of your Citizenship certificate. For Whyalla residents you can call Whyalla City Council on 8640 3444.
Details about the ceremony
There are two types of Citizenship ceremonies available for presentation of your Australian Citizenship.
- A private citizenship ceremony can be organised within two weeks of contacting Council, depending on the availability of the Mayor. This ceremony is quite simple and normally takes 15 - 20 minutes. Family and friends are welcome to attend private ceremonies.
- Public Citizenship ceremonies are held annually on Australia Day (26 January) and Australian Citizenship Day (17 September). These events are only held if the number of candidates requesting presentation warrants it.
During your Australian Citizenship ceremony you will be asked to make a Pledge of Commitment in English to receive your certificate. This Pledge is available in written form and provided to the candidate at the time of the ceremony.
Contacts
For general enquiries regarding Australian Citizenships please contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection via their website or phone 13 18 80.
For enquiries for Council's Citizenship ceremonies please contact Whyalla City Council on 8640 3444.