Over 200 residents will swear their allegiance to Australia in a special ceremony held on Australia Day, January 26.
On February 3, the 75th Anniversary of the first Australian citizenship ceremony held in Canberra in 1949, over 1200 residents will become new citizens in three super ceremonies at Council’s Bowman Hall.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Tony Bleasdale OAM said: “Anyone, from any country, can come and find a home and a community, right here in Blacktown City. We celebrate the diversity and strength of our City.”
“Blacktown City is home to around 415,000 people who represent more than 180 countries and languages. We are proud of the contribution each and every new citizen brings from their own rich and diverse culture. They enrich our City’s communities,” Mayor Bleasdale said.
Blacktown City is the largest council in New South Wales by population, and one of the largest local government areas in Australia, home also to the largest urban population of First Nations people in New South Wales.
Citizenship ceremonies have been held in the Blacktown area since the early 1950s.
The Commonwealth Government notes that Australian citizenship represents commitment to Australia and its people, the values we share and our common future. Since 1949, more than 6 million people have chosen to become Australian citizens.
The first Australian citizenship ceremony took place at Albert Hall, Canberra on February 3 1949. Seven people from seven different nations became Australian citizens.
Mayor Bleasdale said: “As Mayor, it fills me with great pride when I attend our citizenship ceremonies. I see faces light up with joy as our new citizens are welcomed into our community. It is an unforgettable moment for them and their families. Their participation ensures a transformational future for our City and themselves.”
