On 3 February 1949, seven people from seven nations participated in the first Australian citizenship ceremony at Albert Hall in Canberra. Each person represented a state in Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
To commemorate this occasion, and to celebrate the history and value of Australian citizenship, a special citizenship ceremony took place at Albert Hall today on Saturday 3 February. 2024, presided over by Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd).
An African family celebrating their new Australian citizenship
Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Andrew Giles welcomed 75 people from every continent who will complete their migration journey today, and become part of one of the greatest multicultural nations in the world.
New Australians who received their citizenship last weekend joined over 6 million people from more than 200 nations who have acquired Australian citizenship in the last 75 years- united by a shared commitment to democracy and the rule of law, to freedom of speech and religion.
“Modern Australia is a nation built through citizenship – reflecting the contributions and experiences of more than 6 million people from around the world who chose to commit to us. The Australian Government understands how important permanency and citizenship are to those who have lived, worked and contributed to their local communities for so long”, stated the immigration Minister.
