Moira Shire welcomed 11 new Australian citizens on Thursday, May 23, 2023, during a ceremony at the Cobram Civic Centre.
Chair Administrator John Tanner presided over the event, with fellow Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM also in attendance.
Mr Tanner congratulated the new citizens, highlighting the importance of their decision and their wish to share a common future.
“It is an honour to present Australian citizenship to people who appreciate and value our society so much that they wish to make Australia their home,” Mr Tanner said.
“I take this opportunity to welcome all our new citizens and extent, on behalf of the Moira Shire community, best wishes for a happy and successful future as citizens of Australia.”
The group of new citizens includes former residents of India, New Zealand, the Philippines, and the UK.
During the ceremony, Mr Tanner read a message from the Federal Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles, thanking the new citizens for their decision.
“Today, you join a nation that is one of the world’s most successful multicultural societies, with around half of Australians either born overseas or with at least one parent born overseas,” Mr Giles said.
“In Australia, everyone can be proud of who they are – and everyone should be respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging.”
“Our diversity is our greatest strength, and we prosper by embracing this.”
Mr Giles also highlighted Australia’s ethos of the “fair go”, where respect and compassion underpin the nation’s care for each other and willingness to help those in need.
Mr Tanner noted the inspiring sight of new citizens supported by their families, both in Australia and overseas, as they embark on this milestone.