Sa Celebrates Australia Day 2010

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

SA celebrates Australia Day 2010

More than 1000 people from 70 countries will become citizens during 40 special Australia Day ceremonies in South Australia tomorrow (26 January).

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

In South Australia, highlight events include the traditional international cricket match ceremony at Adelaide Oval and dozens of ceremonies at local councils, parks and facilities. The largest welcome 82 people at Salisbury.

UK nationals Peter and Glynis Beadle will become citizens on January 26 at the Adelaide Oval ceremony. They have called Australia home for 34 years and are very excited to become citizens as the whole nation celebrates.

"I had wanted to migrate from the UK to Australia ever since I was 15," Mr Beadle said.

"My cousin came out and sold the virtues of Australia to me. We didn't like the British weather, so we gave it a go. We found our ideal home here in Adelaide and have never looked back."

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