East Gippsland welcomed nine new citizens on Thursday, May 11.

The conferees, from seven countries, including Canada, England, Philippines, Scotland, Serbia, Taiwan and Vietnam, became Australian citizens at a ceremony held in Bairnsdale and hosted by East Gippsland Shire Council.

This makes a total of 42 new citizens welcomed in East Gippsland this year. They have originated from across the world predominately from Canada, Europe and Philippines. 

Mayor Cr Mark Reeves said citizenship ceremonies are one of the highlights of his role.

“Welcoming people from all walks of life and all corners of the globe to East Gippsland changes our community for the better. I am absolutely thrilled that nine new citizens have chosen to live in our wonderful part of the world,” Cr Reeves said.  

“It was a pleasure to make them ‘official’ Aussies and for them to be joined by family and friends in marking the milestone. Some have been living in Australia, and East Gippsland, for many years while others are more recent arrivals. Either way, East Gippsland offers a great way of life and opportunities to be involved in our community.”

Council offers four citizenship ceremonies each year on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.

Attending a citizenship ceremony is the final step in the journey to become an Australian citizen and receive a certificate of Australian Citizenship. The ceremony fulfils the requirements under Australian citizenship law and provides an opportunity for Council to officially welcome its new citizens.

‍View photographs and learn more about citizenship.