Civic Ceremonies

Citizenship ceremonies are administered by Murrindindi Shire Council on behalf of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection and are performed by appointment only.

Gaining Australian citizenship is an important step in your migration story and means that you are making an ongoing commitment to Australia and all that this country stands for. It is a privilege that offers enormous rewards and enables you to say ‘I am Australian’.

To be eligible for Australian Citizenship you must:

• have successfully completed a citizenship test before applying;
• be aged 18 years or over at the time the application is made;
• be a permanent resident;
• satisfy the residence requirement;
• be likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia; and
• be of good character.

As an Australian citizen you must:

• obey the law
• defend Australia should the need arise
• serve on a jury if called to do so
• vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum

As an Australian citizen you have the right to:

• vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum
• apply for work in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force
• seek election to parliament
• apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely
• receive help from an Australian official while overseas
• register children born overseas as Australian citizens by descent.

To take the first step in becoming an Australian Citizen contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection Information Line on 131 880, or visit their website.