Citizenship

Becoming an Australian Citizen

To become an Australian Citizen, start the process by contacting the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) Information Line on 131880 or www.citizenship.gov.au

Once the application has been processed, DIAC will mail a letter of offer to become a Citizen.  Byron Shire Council will then send out an invitation to attend a citizenship ceremony, notifying the date and time of the ceremony.  If you are unable to attend the ceremony, you must contact DIAC.

To enquire about the progress of your Citizenship Application, call the Citizenship Information Line on 131880.

Citizenship Ceremony Dates for 2013

Citizenship ceremonies are held on Mondays at Byron Shire Council Chambers, 70-90 Station Street, Mullumbimby.

New Citizens are asked to arrive at 2.40pm to register.  The ceremonies commence at 3.00pm and are approximately forty minutes long.  

The official ceremony for Australia Day celebrations are held at various locations throughout the Shire.  Australia Day is always celebrated on the day - 26 January -  and the times and locations are advertised prior.  This citizenship dates for this year are: 

26 January

18 March

20 May

19 August

14 October

25 November

Ceremony program

Citizenship ceremonies are conducted by the Mayor of Byron Shire, Cr Simon Richardson.  Entertainment is provided by a local musician.

The presentation of a Citizenship Certificate is the final step to becoming an Australian Citizen.  

Local Members of Parliament are invited to join the ceremony and a representative from the Australian Electoral Commission will be on hand to assist new Citizens to register to vote.  

Family and friends are welcome to join the celebrations.

For further enquiries about ceremonies contact Council on 02 6626 7000.