The conferees from 11 countries, including the United Kingdom, South Africa, Israel, India and the Philippines, will become Australian citizens as part of a ceremony at the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre.

Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said the ceremony was an opportunity for all Australians, whether they are citizens by birth or by choice, to join national celebrations that reflect, respect and celebrate – we reflect on our history, its highs and lows – we respect the stories of all our people – and we celebrate our nation, its achievements and most of all, its people.

“All Australians are encouraged to celebrate our national day and to share what Australian citizenship means to them,” Councillor Burnett said.

“There is no greater privilege than our citizenship. It’s a life-long commitment to Australia’s shared values, including respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, the rule of law and democracy, and equality of opportunity for all people.

“Australian citizenship ceremonies are an important part of our nation’s celebrations and hold special significance for those becoming citizens and the broader Australian community.

“Traditionally, more people become citizens on Australia Day than any other day of the year.”

COVID-19 guidelines on hotspot restrictions, gathering sizes and social distancing resulted in fewer citizenship ceremonies than usual in 2020.

Even so, more than 12,000 people will receive citizenship at the many ceremonies being hosted by local councils across the country on Australia Day.

For more information visit www.citizenship.gov.au or www.gladstone.qld.gov.au.

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