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Citizenship ceremonies

Attending a citizenship ceremony and making your pledge is the final legal step to becoming an Australian citizen.

The Australian Citizenship Act 2007 requires a person to make a pledge of commitment to Australia before a presiding officer. This is a legal requirement that has been in place for decades.

Eurobodalla Council usually hosts citizenship ceremonies four times per year, depending on demand and will adhere to COVID-19 safety guidelines. Additional ceremonies may be scheduled throughout the year as required.

Upcoming ceremonies

  • Sunday 26 January 2025
  • Thursday 20 March 2025
  • Thursday 19 June 2025
  • Wednesday 17 September 2025
  • Dates are subject to change

Frequently asked questions about citizenship ceremonies

I have received my letter of approval. When can I attend a ceremony?+

The application process to become an Australian Citizen can be lengthy. Attending a ceremony and making the pledge is the final step in this process.

Four weeks prior to a scheduled Citizenship Ceremony, Council receives a list of candidates who are eligible to make their pledge from the Department of Home Affairs. Invitations will be sent from Council to all candidates on this list. Council is unable to add people to this list.

How often are ceremonies held in Eurobodalla?+

Citizenship ceremonies are usually held four times a year in Eurobodalla.

I can’t attend the ceremony I have been invited to. What can I do?+

Let us know that you are unable to attend by contacting us on the details included on your invitation.

Your details will be transferred to the next available ceremony.

What happens at a citizenship ceremony?+

On arrival, candidates will be registered and seated.

Ceremonies run for approximately 30 minutes, followed by a morning or afternoon tea.

The ceremony includes:

  • official welcome
  • reading of the Minister’s Message
  • pledge of commitment to Australia
  • presentation of Australian Citizenship Certificates
  • Affirmation Ceremony
  • national anthem.

What do I need to bring to the ceremony?+

Please bring photo identification with you to the ceremony. This can be in the form of a passport, driver’s license or a government issued photo card.

If you wish to make your pledge on a bible or holy book, please bring this with you.

We suggest that you bring along your invitation to help with the registration process.

Do I need to attend a ceremony to receive my certificate?+

Yes. At the ceremony, candidates are required to make their pledge to receive their certificate. This is a legal requirement to become an Australian Citizen.

Will I receive my certificate at the ceremony?+

In most cases, recipients are presented with their Australian Citizenship Certificate at the ceremony after taking their pledge.

If the certificate is unavailable at the time of the ceremony, the Department of Home Affairs will post it to you as soon as it is available.

Do children becoming Australian Citizens need to attend a ceremony?+

Yes. Children under the age of 16 are not legally required to take the citizenship pledge at the ceremony, however they are encouraged to take the pledge with their parents or guardians where possible.

Can I bring guests to the ceremony?+

Yes. You are more than welcome to bring up to five guests with you to the ceremony.

Do I need to remember the pledge prior to the ceremony?+

No. You will be provided with a copy of the pledge on the day of the ceremony.

Can photos be taken during the ceremony?+

Yes. Family and friends are welcome to take photos during the ceremony. There will also be time to take photos following the ceremony.

What should I wear?+

The attire of attendees at Citizenship Ceremonies should reflect the significance of the occasion. We encourage Citizenship Ceremony attendees to wear smart casual attire. Attendees are also welcome to wear their own national/traditional/cultural dress.

The following attire is not permitted:

  • beach wear
  • rubber thongs
  • bare feet
  • slippers
  • offensive shirts
  • sports training apparel

I have lost my Citizenship Certificate. Can you provide me with another one?+

Council is unable to provide you with a new certificate.

Please phone the Department of Home Affairs on 131 881 to arrange a new Citizenship Certificate.

Contact us

If you need more information about citizenship ceremonies, please contact Council's Executive Services:

If you would like information about becoming an Australian Citizen, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website or phone 131 881.

More information