MEDIA RELEASE
104.09
22 November 2009
Canberra welcomes a record 365 new citizens
A record number of new citizens will be welcomed to Canberra tomorrow
during a series of ceremonies staged at the National Museum of Australia.
“This is an historic occasion for Canberra, with some 365 new citizens
officially joining the Australian family,” a departmental spokeswoman said.
“It’s an exciting time for the many citizens-to-be, who have journeyed to
Australia from 64 countries such as India, the United Kingdom, China and the
Philippines. The National Museum of Australia is a fitting setting for such a
significant celebration.”
Among the new citizens being conferred tomorrow is a champion tennis
player, 22-year-old Jarmila Groth, who hopes to one day represent Australia
in the Fed Cup.
“I am really looking forward to playing my first Aussie summer of tennis as a
real Australian,” Ms Groth said.
“It will be a very proud moment for me to walk on the court for my first match
and to be introduced as a real Australian.”
This year marks the 60th anniversary of Australian citizenship. Prior to the
introduction of citizenship legislation in 1949, most Australian residents were
British subjects.
“Citizenship represents a commitment to Australia and its people, the values
we share and our common future. I congratulate all of Canberra’s newest
citizens,” the spokeswoman said.
Citizenship ceremonies will be staged at 9.30am, 11.30am, 1pm and 3pm on
November 23 at the National Museum of Australia.
Members of the media are welcome to attend any ceremony for interviews
and photographs with conferees. Ms Groth will be conferred with Australian
citizenship at 3pm tomorrow.
Media Enquiries: (02) 6264 2244
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