Citizenship ceremonies

Becoming an Australian citizen is one of the most important decisions for those who have chosen to make Australia their home.

The citizenship ceremony is the final step in becoming an Australian citizen. Local councils conduct most citizenship ceremonies on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.

Citizenship ceremonies fulfil the legal requirements for citizenship prescribed by the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 and the Australian Citizenship Regulations 2007.

Bundaberg Regional Council is honoured to play a role in ensuring your citizenship ceremony is a meaningful and special experience for you, your family, and friends.

Council holds approximately six Citizenship Ceremonies per year.

All initial enquiries regarding becoming an Australian Citizen can be made to the Department of Home Affairs in Brisbane by phoning 131881 or visiting the Department's website.

Once citizenship has been approved by the Department and Council has been notified of the approval, a representative from Council will contact you to arrange for you to take the Pledge of Commitment as the final step in becoming an Australian citizen.

2024 Citizenship Ceremony Dates

25 January
15 April
8 July
13 September
11 November

Frequently asked questions

I have received my letter of approval. When can I attend the 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 Bundaberg?

Citizenship Ceremonies are usually held four times per year in Bundaberg.

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

Let us know if you are unable to attend. Contact details will be 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 to an hour.

The Ceremony consists of:

Reading of the Minister’s Message
Mayor’s Welcome
Citizenship Preamble
Pledges
Presentation of Citizenship Certificates
Affirmation by an Australian Citizen
The Australian 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.

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.

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.

What do 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.