Yesterday, September 17, was National Citizenship Day. Ten (10) people formalised their link with Australia at a ceremony in the Lismore City Council Chambers in Goonellabah. 

People from Belgium, Canada, China, Israel, Malaysia, New Zealand and the Philippines have chosen the Lismore LGA to settle down and live their lives.

Mayor Steve Krieg presided over the ceremony, with Federal MP Kevin Hogan in attendance, to give a warm welcome to the new Australians.

After formalising their ties, the National Anthem was played and sung before cheers and congratulations were passed around. People took the opportunity to get a photo with the Mayor and Mr Hogan.

Magalie from Belgium has been in Australia since 2017 and has travelled extensively around the country before settling into life at Dunoon with her partner. Magalie is impressed with the Lismore LGA, “ It has everything you need.

“Not far from the coast, this is a nice rural area and an amazing city!”

Making the decision to become a citizen makes Magalie's position more secure, “I wanted to fit in like other people here.”

(Singing the National Anthem concluded the ceremony)

Jennifer, originally from Malaysia, has been here for ten years. She is getting older, and her partner told us she was very excited to become an Australian, although she was a little shy. 

Three citizenship days are held a year. Besides today, Australia Day and sometimes a ceremony in April are the other traditional times to connect your story to the lucky country.

Mr Hogan said, “ I'm always reminded when you come to citizenship ceremonies, the people are very appreciative of becoming an Australian citizen and have great pride about being an Australian citizen. 

“I think that's always a good reminder because I don't think some people appreciate the good fortune it is to be an Australian citizen and the wonderful country we have.”

 Mayor Krieg said, “It's probably the highest honour as the mayor to be able to preside over a ceremony like this. And as Kevin said, you know people choose to come and live here. 

(Jennifer with her new citizenship status)

“When you're born and raised here, you may take it for granted - how great our country is, how democratic we are. We've just gone through an election last weekend, and for people just to have the simple right to vote is something that is not common around the globe. 

“We need to appreciate the freedom that we are granted, and it is great to welcome 10 people who may or may not have experienced that freedom that we've all grown up and enjoyed.

“It is a really special honour to be able to welcome those people as Australians.”