Becoming an Australian citizen means that you are making an ongoing commitment to Australia and all that the country stands for. It is also the beginning of your formal membership in to the Australian community. It is the step that will enable you to say ‘I am Australian’.
Australian citizenship is a privilege that offers enormous rewards. Australiahas been built on the combined contributions of Indigenous people and those who came later from all over the world. Australiacelebrate this diversity and at the same time, strive for a unified and harmonious nation.
The strength of the Australian community means that they work together to solve problems and to make Australia the great country that it is. Australiahave a stable system of government and Australians respect the authority and laws of the government. Stability, culture and laws have been shaped by the history of Australia.
Responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship
As a permanent resident of Australia, you can enjoy living in a free and democratic society. When you become an Australian citizen, you will have new responsibilities. You will also have a range of new benefits.
1Responsibilities
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
2Privileges
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 AustralianDefence Force
• seek election to parliament
• apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely
• register children born overseas as Australian citizens by descent.
You might also be able to seek consular assistance from an official overseas.
3Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and libert...
At the citizenship ceremony, you will pledge that you share Australia’s democratic beliefs and respect the rights and liberties of the people of Australia.
Democratic beliefs:
• Parliamentary democracy
• The rule of law
• Living peacefully
• Respect for all individuals regardless of background
• Compassion for those in need
Freedoms:
• Freedom of speech and freedom of expression
• Freedom of association
• Freedom of religion and secular government
Equalities:
• Equality in Australia
• Equality of men and women
• Equality of opportunity
By Premji
