Becoming An Australian Citizen - The Official Study Guide For Australian Citizenship

Introduction

You have chosen to live in Australia and to make a contribution to its future by seeking to become an Australian citizen. Becoming a citizen gives you the opportunity to call yourself an Australian. It is the final and most important step in the migration journey.

Australian citizenship is a common bond for all Australians, whether by birth or by choice. Becoming an Australian citizen is about joining a distinct national community. With that comes responsibilities and privileges and the opportunity to participate fully in Australian life.

An ancient land and a young nation, Australia has welcomed settlers and new citizens from more than 200 countries. Few countries have managed to combine ethnic and cultural diversity with national unity as successfully as Australia.

When citizenship is conferred, new citizens are asked to pledge loyalty to Australia and its people, to share their democratic beliefs, to respect their rights and liberties and to uphold and obey Australia’s laws.

Australia is a liberal democracy in the Western political tradition. The civic values of Australia include respect for the equal worth, dignity and freedom of every individual, religious tolerance and the equality of men and women. Australian citizenship is about living out these values in everyday life and in local communities.

Modern citizenship also rests on sentiments of nationhood and enduring attachment to what Australians hold in common. With this in mind, and with support from government, new citizens are expected to have a basic knowledge of English. They are also expected to know something of Australia’s history and heritage, our land and its people, and of the unique national culture which has evolved in Australia over time.

This knowledge will help new citizens to embrace education, employment and other opportunities in Australia. It also helps to foster a cohesive and integrated society with a sense of shared destiny and, should the need arise, shared sacrifice for the common good.

Australian citizenship provides for an overriding commitment to Australia. The different experiences we bring, our diverse backgrounds and cultures, can all serve to enrich that shared commitment.

Australian citizenship is a privilege that offers enormous rewards to all who strive to uphold its obligations. The Australian Government welcomes your desire to join our national community. We want new citizens to participate fully in our national life so that each individual can make the most of his or her abilities and help to build an even stronger and more united Australia.

This book will help you prepare to become an Australian citizen.

For further information about citizenship go to: www.citizenship.gov.au