Nt Celebrates Australia Day 2010

Senator Chris Evans
Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister for Immigration and Citizenship

NT celebrates Australia Day 2010

Nearly 120 people from 34 countries will become citizens during eight special Australia Day ceremonies in the Northern Territory tomorrow (26 January).

Nationwide, about 16 500 people from 144 countries will become citizens at 350
ceremonies on and around Australia Day making 2010 celebrations the biggest ever.

In the Northern Territory, 60 people are set to become Australian citizens at a special citizenship and flag-raising ceremony being held at the Darwin Entertainment Centre.

Among those to make the pledge in Darwin will be Architect Peter Augerea, his wife and four children, who are originally from Papua New Guinea and have called Australia home since 2004.

"We love living here," Mr Augerea said.

"In many ways it is like where we've come from but we feel safe here, more relaxed and this country has given us opportunities that might not have been possible before."

January 26 is a chance for everyone to celebrate the diversity on which Australia is built.

The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said Australia has been enriched by the cultures of people from more than 200 countries who have chosen to call Australia home.

"Becoming an Australian citizen shows commitment and loyalty to this country and a desire to share in our common future," Senator Evans said.

"Australian citizenship is about people embracing a new national identity and a chance for all Australians to understand the role citizenship plays in building a strong, unified nation.

"Our citizenship is something we should all actively celebrate on Australia Day.
"I invite everyone attending ceremonies to also celebrate their commitment to Australia by joining in the affirmation and publicly stating their loyalty and commitment to Australia and its people."

Note to media: Broadcast-quality audio grabs from Senator Evans and further information on Australian citizenship are available online at: www.newsroom.immi.gov.au

For interviews with new citizens: Contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship National Communications Branch on (02) 6264 2244.

Media Contacts:
Simon Dowding
(02) 6277 7860
or 0411 138 541 (Minister's office)
DIAC National Communications Branch on (02) 6264 2244

SOURCE: Minister for Immigration and Citizenship