Why should I become a citizen?

Australian citizenship is an important step in your migration story. Becoming an Australian citizen means that you are making an ongoing commitment to Australia and all that this country stands for. It is also the beginning of your formal membership of the Australian community. It is the step that will enable you to say ‘I am Australian’.

Australian citizenship is a privilege that offers enormous rewards. By becoming an Australian citizen, you are joining a unique national community. Our country has been built on the combined contributions of our Indigenous people and those who came later from all over the world. We celebrate this diversity and at the same time, strive for a unified and harmonious nation.

The strength of the Australian community means that we work together to solve problems and to make Australia the great country that it is. We have a stable system of government and Australians respect the authority and laws of the government. Our stability, our culture and our laws have been shaped by our history. By joining the Australian community, you will inherit this history and you will be in a position to contribute to it.

Responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship

As a permanent resident of Australia, you have already enjoyed living in a free and democratic society. When you become an Australian citizen, you will have new responsibilities. You will also have a range of new benefits.

Responsibilities

As an Australian citizen you must:

obey the law
defend Australia should the need arise
serve on a jury if called to do so
vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum
See: Australian Electoral Commission

Privileges

As an Australian citizen you have the right to:

vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum
apply for work in the Australian Public Service or in the Australian Defence Force
seek election to parliament
apply for an Australian passport and re-enter Australia freely
register children born overseas as Australian citizens by descent.

You might also be able to seek consular assistance from an official overseas.

Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties

At the citizenship ceremony, you pledge that you share Australia’s democratic beliefs and that you respect the rights and liberties of the people of Australia.

Our democratic beliefs:

Parliamentary democracy
The rule of law
Living peacefully
Respect for all individuals regardless of background
Compassion for those in need

Our freedoms:

Freedom of speech and freedom of expression
Freedom of association
Freedom of religion and secular government

Our equalities:

Equality in Australia
Equality of men and women
Equality of opportunity

How do I apply for Australian citizenship?

There are several ways to apply for Australian citizenship. The application process varies depending on your visa and residency history.

View the citizenship options below to find out how to apply:

Australian citizenship
Australian citizenship by descent
Australian citizenship by adoption
Resuming your Australian citizenship
Evidence of Australian citizenship

See:How to apply

New Zealand citizens living in Australia

If you are a New Zealand citizen living in Australia and would like to know about permanent residency or your Australian citizenship options, see New Zealand citizens living in Australia.