Citizenship ceremonies
Making the Australian Citizenship Pledge is the final step in becoming an Australian Citizen, and the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley is proud to welcome those who have made this journey.
Your first step in applying to become an Australia Citizen is to contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection on 13 18 80 or by visiting their website.
Applications must be lodged at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. To find out more please call the Department of Immigration and Border Protection on 13 18 80.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the waiting time for a ceremony?
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection advises that once you have received the approval letter from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, the waiting time can be between 4 to 6 months.
How can I find out when my Citizenship Ceremony will be?
Citizenship Ceremonies are gauged by a Conferral Planning Reports sent to the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley once a month from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Once these reports are received by the Shire, you will then be booked into the next available ceremony. An invitation will then be sent to you from the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley.
When will I receive the details confirming my ceremony?
The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley endeavours to give candidates as much notice as possible of your ceremony date. An invitation will be sent to you to confirm your ceremony details.
When and where are Citizenship Ceremonies held?
Citizenship Ceremonies are held in Kununurra and Wyndham on Australia Day, Citizenship Day and other times throughout the year as required. Other than Australia Day, Citizenship Ceremonies are held within the Shire's Council Chambers.
How long does the Citizenship Ceremony run for?
The Citizenship Ceremony will run for approximately 1 hour. After the ceremony candidates and guests are invited to stay for drinks and refreshments.
What will the ceremony involve?
Ceremonies can vary slightly but the main elements are:
- Official welcome
- An address by a special guest or the Shire President or Councillor
- Pledge of commitment to Australia
- Presentation of certificates of Australia citizenship
- Presentation of a gift to all new citizens
Do I have to bring anything with me to the ceremony?
Please bring a form of identification, Drivers Licence, Passport etc.
What is the dress code for the ceremony?
There is no strict dress code for the citizenship ceremonies, however, smart casual dress is recommended.
Do I have to remember any speech or pledge prior to the ceremony?
No. When you first applied for your Australian Citizenship through the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, you would have been asked if you wanted to make an oath or affirmation pledge. The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley will be advised by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection of your preference and will present you with a pledge card upon your name being called at hte ceremony to read from.
What is the difference between the Oath and the Affirmation pledge?
There are two variations of the citizenship pledge - the Oath and the Affirmation. The Oath pledge refers to 'God' whereas the Affirmation pledge does not. When you receive your invitation to a ceremony, it will note the pledge that you have selected during the Department of Immigration and Border Protection's approval process. If this is incorrect, please contact the Shire on 9168 4100.
If I choose to make an oath pledge, can I bring my own bible?
The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley encourages people to bring any religious books that they would like to make an oath on. A bible can be provided by the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley should you require one.
Do children need to attend citizenship ceremonies?
Children aged 16 years and over are legally required to attend their citizenship ceremony and take the citizenship pledge to become an Australian citizen. Children under the age of 16 are not legally required to take the citizenship pledge, however the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley encourages them to participate in taking the citizenship pledge where possible.
Can I bring guests to the Citizenship Ceremony?
You are most welcome to share this memorable occasion with relatives and friends.
Will I receive my certificate at the ceremony?
Yes. Once the candidates have been invited and accepted the invitation to the ceremony, the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley is required to order the Citizenship Certificates from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship four weeks prior to the ceremony. The certificates are printed and sent to the Shire for the ceremony.
I have lost my citizenship certificate, what should I do?
If you have lost your citizenship certificate, you will need to contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection to arrange a replacement on 13 18 80. The Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley cannot issue or replace citizenship certificates.
For further information visit the Department of Immigration and Border Protection