Darwin citizenship ceremony 'celebrates multiculturalism'

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Created on Thursday, 18 April 2013 15:39

Written by Editorial staff

Darwin held its largest citizenship ceremony of the year this week, with 270 people taking the pledge to become an Australian.

The event marked the successful completion of their citizenship applications and saw individuals, families and couples from nearly 40 countries gain permanent residency.

They gathered at the Darwin Entertainment Centre on Monday (April 15), being conferred as citizens by Darwin City Council lord mayor Katrina Fong Lim.

A spokesperson for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship said the sheer number of nations represented at the Darwin ceremony continued the city's legacy of multiculturalism.

"Darwin has for many years been a vibrant community with a large number of cultures represented in its population and this ceremony certainly reflects that community," he explained.

"The values of inclusiveness, respect and belonging are fundamental to the development of Australia's successful multicultural framework."

The spokesman added that the event was a perfect time to reflect and celebrate the "rich patchwork of cultures" that comprise Australia and ensure it continues to be an excellent place to live.

"The 270 people will be taking the final step of joining the Australian community as fully fledged members who will enjoy all the rights and responsibilities of being an Australian."

This ceremony brings the total number of people gaining permanent residency in Darwin to 424 this year and it was the first large-scale event of its type since the council conferred 135 people as citizens in October 2012.

The Northern Territory capital prides itself on its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with the Darwin City Council website stating that the city is home to people from more than 70 different ethnic backgrounds and over 60 nationalities.

This multiculturalism is reflected in the wide range of cultural festivals and food and craft markets that take place each week, the local authority adds.