Brimbank City Council welcomed 540 new Australians from 53 countries at citizenship ceremonies on Sunday 14 June, marking the beginning of Refugee Week.
Three ceremonies were held back-to-back at the St Albans Community Centre to accommodate the large number of people making their citizenship pledge.
Participants were presented with citizenship certificates, lapel pins featuring the Australian flag and native seed packets to remind them of their new beginnings as Australian citizens.
Mayor Cr Virginia Tachos said she was delighted to see so many people choosing to become Australian citizens and to call Brimbank home.
“Refugee Week is an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect on and celebrate our vibrant multicultural society and recognise the meaningful contributions refugees have made to Australian life.
“Our diverse community reminds us that our differences make us stronger. Brimbank has been built and shaped by generations migrants, including refugees, and this is one of our city’s greatest strengths.
“These ceremonies represent a significant milestone in participants’ lives. Congratulations and a warm welcome to everyone who took this important step on Sunday.”
