Australian Citizenships

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Overview

 

 

Citizenship ceremonies are administered by the Horsham Rural City Council on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.  The ceremonies are held prior to Council meetings and are usually presided over by the Mayor.

 

  

 

Australian citizens can:

  • live in Australia
  • apply for an Australian passport and leave and re-enter Australia without applying for a resident return visa
  • seek assistance from Australia diplomatic representatives whilst overseas
  • vote to help elect Australia's governments
  • stand for Parliament
  • work in the public sector
  • serve in the armed forces
  • register by descent of any children born overseas after you become a citizen

Australian citizens are required to:

  • obey Australian laws
  • enrol on federal and state / territory electoral registers
  • vote in elections
  • defend Australia should the need arise
  • serve on a jury if called to do so

Eligibility requirements

The requirements of Australian citizenship eligibility changed on 1 October 2007.

People who apply 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
  • be of good character

For information on how to apply, visit the Department of Home Affairs website Home Affairs or phone the Citizenship Information Line:131 880

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