Tasmania's Newest Citizens Celebrate Constitution Day

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8th July 2009, 06:35pm - Views: 972





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MEDIA RELEASE


Media Enquiries: National Communications 03 9235 3480


060.09

8 July 2009

Australia’s newest citizens celebrate Constitution Day


Some 170 people from more than 40 countries will become Australian citizens in

ceremonies across the country tomorrow (July 9) as the nation celebrates

Constitution Day.


In Hobart, 13 people from countries including South Korea, India, China,

Sudan, South Africa and Ethiopia will become Australian citizens at a special

ceremony.


One of Tasmania's most popular Tibetans, Lama Shedrup, from Launceston,

will be conferred citizenship in colourful robes after 27 years in Australia – the

past 11 in Tasmania.


The Venerable Lama, who was born on Australia Day, will be accompanied by

his wife, son and family members, some wearing traditional dress.


The ceremony at 10.30am in the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery’s

Royal Society Room, 40 Macquarie St, will be co-hosted by be the National

Archives of Australia and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship

(DIAC).


DIAC Secretary Andrew Metcalfe said, “On the occasion that marks

Australia’s creation as a nation, it is fitting to celebrate citizenship, the glue

that holds our culturally diverse population together.


“Constitution Day ceremonies will give the newest citizens of our nation an

opportunity to acknowledge that they understand and respect what it means to

be an Australian citizen.


“Constitution Day is an initiative of the National Archives of Australia. The

Department of Immigration and Citizenship is delighted to work in partnership

with the Archives to promote this special day for the third time.”


Since 1949, some four million people have chosen to become Australian

citizens. “This year is the 60th anniversary of Australian citizenship, making

2009 an opportunity for us to reflect on the changes that have shaped our

nation in the past six decades, and a chance for us to understand the role that

citizenship plays in building a strong and unified Australia,” Mr Metcalfe said.


Constitution Day citizenship ceremonies will be staged in every state and

territory.








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