Northern Territory welcomes new citizens from 33 countries

More than 120 people from 33 different countries are to gain Australian citizenship in the Northern Territory today.

Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Territory Director Annette Keenan said taking up the privilege of citizenship was an expression of loyalty and commitment to the Australian way of life.

‘Nine citizenship ceremonies are being held across the territory,’ Ms Keenan said.

‘The biggest event hosted by Darwin City Council at the Darwin Entertainment Centre will confer citizenship on 74 people from 22 countries.’

In Alice Springs, 26 people will take the pledge. Palmerston is hosting an afternoon ceremony for 27 people. Three people are to gain citizenship in Katherine.

The Northern Territory events are among 280 ceremonies to be held around the nation today.

More than 12 500 people from 111 countries will become Australians.

‘There is something very special about taking out Australian citizenship,’ Ms Keenan said.

Everyone who has taken that step today will bring their own unique talents and experiences that will further enrich the broader Australian community,’ she said.