Council welcomes new Australians this Refugee Week

This Refugee Week, Council welcomed 11 new Australian citizens during a special citizenship ceremony at Hunters Hill Town Hall in celebration of Australia’s cultural diversity.  

The newest citizens, from different countries including China, Albania, Iran, New Zealand, Norway, Germany, Guernsey and United Kingdom were welcomed by Mayor Zac Miles who was presiding over the ceremony.  

Mayor Zac Miles said Refugee Week is an opportunity to come together as a community to reflect on and celebrate our vibrant multicultural society - especially the significant contributions of humanitarian entrants - and to welcome the newest Australian citizens to the community.  

“Australian citizenship ceremonies are a hugely important part of our nation’s celebrations,” Mayor Miles said. 

“Our newest citizens join over six million people who have chosen to make Australia home since 1949. Whether by birth or choice, it is our shared citizenship and Australian values that unite us as a community.” 

The skills and cultural diversity of the new citizens, as well as their participation in our community, enriches the experience of all of us.  

Among those taking the oath were two new citizens, each with a unique perspective on what this milestone means for their future. 

Pavlin Balaj, who recently became an Australian citizen, shared: 

“As I begin this next chapter, I feel both the responsibility and privilege of joining a country that values fairness and respect. I look forward to contributing and growing alongside my community.” 

Anna Jane Smith also reflected on the ceremony itself: 

“Becoming an Australian means a lot to me. My grandmother grew up in Sydney and moved to New Zealand, so it feels full circle for me to have moved here and made a life here with my husband,” 

“We love being part of this community and are proud to call it home.” 

Council invited all Australians to reflect on our shared values, our rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, our national history, and how each one of us can become more involved with our local communities.  

Council would like to wish our new citizens the best in this new stage in their lives.