A Shared Promise for a Shared Future

When Priya from India finally received her Australian citizenship invitation, she felt more than pride — she felt a sense of belonging. Holding the golden-coloured citizenship certificate, she knew it was more than a document. Reflecting on the journey and struggle in a new society, she made a promise. Becoming an Australian citizen means joining a community built on freedom, fairness and respect for all. It is both a privilege and a commitment to uphold the nation’s democratic values.
For thousands of new migrants each year, citizenship marks a major milestone — the moment when temporary belonging turns into permanent inclusion. Yet with the rights of citizenship come responsibilities: obeying the law, voting in elections, helping defend the country if needed, and respecting the diversity that defines modern Australia.

Understanding Australian Citizenship

Citizenship is the legal bond that connects a person to Australia. It signifies not just residence, but full membership of the national community. Under the Australian Citizenship Act 2007, citizens gain rights such as voting, applying for an Australian passport, and receiving help from Australian embassies overseas. But citizenship also carries obligations — loyalty to Australia, respect for its laws, and active participation in democratic life.
New citizens officially join the Australian family during a citizenship ceremony, often held by local councils on Australia Day or Australian Citizenship Day. There, they take the Pledge of Commitment, publicly affirming loyalty to Australia and support for its democratic beliefs, rights, and liberties. This is not just a formality; it symbolises a shared journey — from migrant to Australian.

New Australian citizens taking the pledge at a citizenship ceremony.
Citizenship ceremonies celebrate Australia’s multicultural democracy. Graphics: NewlyAussie

Read Also: Australian Citizenship Test Practice 

The Australian Values That Bind Us

Australia’s success as a multicultural nation rests on clear, shared values outlined in the Life in Australia booklet published by the Department of Home Affairs. These values help create a secure, inclusive and peaceful society:

  • Respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual
  • Freedom of religion, speech, and association
  • Commitment to the rule of law — everyone is equal before the law
  • Parliamentary democracy — government by the people, through elected representatives
  • Equality of opportunity for all people, regardless of gender, origin or faith
  • A fair go for all — embracing tolerance, compassion and mutual respect
  • English as the national language — a unifying thread across cultures
These values don’t demand sameness. They celebrate diversity within a framework of fairness and respect. Upholding them ensures that every citizen — whether born in Sydney or settled from Sudan — shares a foundation of belonging and mutual trust.

How It Works — Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens

Your Responsibilities — What You Give to Australia

Citizenship is not only about what you gain, but what you give. Every Australian citizen shares in the responsibility of keeping the nation fair, democratic and safe:

  • Obey Australian laws and respect the rule of law.
  • Vote in federal, state, territory and local elections, and participate in referendums.
  • Serve on a jury if called, contributing to justice through civic duty.
  • Defend Australia if required, showing loyalty and unity in times of need.

Freedom thrives only when everyone plays their part — democracy is a shared effort.

Your Privileges — What Australia Gives You

Citizenship opens doors that are closed to non-citizens:

  • The right to vote and stand for public office.
  • The ability to work in the Public Service or the Defence Force.
  • Access to an Australian passport and easy re-entry into Australia.
  • The right for your children born overseas to claim citizenship by descent.
  • Access to consular assistance abroad during emergencies.

Together, these privileges represent full participation in Australia’s civic and political life.

Australian flag and citizenship certificate symbolising national pride.


Australian Citizenship Values — Freedom, Fairness and the Rule of Law

Freedom and equality lie at the heart of Australian democracy. According to Life in Australia, everyone must obey the law, yet all enjoy protection under it. No one — not even government leaders — is above the law.
Five key freedoms shape daily life in Australia:

  • Freedom of speech – to express ideas peacefully.
  • Freedom of religion – to follow any faith or none.
  • Freedom of association – to join or leave lawful groups.
  • Freedom of assembly – to gather or protest peacefully.
  • Freedom of movement – to live and travel freely within Australia.
However, freedom is not absolute. Hate speech, violence, or actions that break the law are never acceptable. Anti-discrimination laws protects people from unfair treatment based on gender, disability, sexual orientation, race or age. These principles uphold fairness — the cornerstone of the Australian “fair go”.

The Citizenship Pledge — A Public Commitment

At the heart of every citizenship ceremony is the Pledge of Commitment. New citizens may choose a version with or without reference to God:

“From this time forward, [under God] I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I will uphold and obey.”
Taking this pledge is the moment one becomes an Australian citizen. It is a public promise — a declaration of unity and shared purpose. For many, it is emotional and transformative, often followed by the national anthem, flag-raising, and celebrations with family, friends, and local communities.

Common Questions About Australian Citizenship


1. What values should Australian citizens have?

 Freedom, respect, equality and fairness are core Australian values—these guide how citizens live peacefully in a multicultural democracy.

2. What are the five fundamental freedoms?

 Speech, religion, association, assembly and movement.

3. What is an Australian citizenship certificate?

 It is official proof of your Australian nationality. If lost or damaged, you can request a replacement from the Department of Home Affairs.

4. Is dual citizenship allowed?

 Yes. Australia allows dual citizenship if the other country also recognises it.

5. How long does citizenship last?

 For life — unless voluntarily renounced or revoked due to fraud or serious offences.

6. Can I appeal a refusal?

 Yes. You may seek a review through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

7. Can I travel while my application is processed?

 Yes, provided your permanent visa and travel facility remain valid. After five years, you may need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia.

New Australians volunteering in their local community.

Common Challenges for New Citizens


The road to citizenship is meaningful but not always easy. Some common hurdles include:

  • English proficiency — essential for employment and community participation.
  • Understanding the citizenship test, which covers values, history and government.
  • Processing delays if documents are incomplete.
  • Balancing cultural identity while integrating into Australian life.

Community groups and councils offer support through citizenship workshops and English classes under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). Volunteering also helps new migrants practise English and build local connections.

Helpful Tips and Services

If you are planning to apply for Australian citizenship, use these trusted resources, which makes your process smooth:


Real-Life Story — Finding Belonging in a New Land

When Ahmad and Leila arrived from Syria five years ago, they struggled with English and homesickness. Today, they proudly call Adelaide home. Volunteering at a local food bank, they met neighbours, improved their English, and learned about Australian democracy.

“When we said the pledge, we felt tears in our eyes,” Ahmad recalls. “We felt we belong here — not just living in Australia, but being part of it.”

Their journey shows that citizenship is more than paperwork — it’s participation. Every act of respect, contribution and care strengthens Australia’s multicultural story.

A Promise to Australia and Each Other

Becoming an Australian citizen is more than a legal step — it’s a commitment to a shared home built on freedom, fairness and respect. Each new citizen strengthens Australia’s democratic fabric, reminding us that belonging is earned through contribution and kindness. Whether born here or arrived later in life, citizenship unites us through a promise to uphold the values that make this land safe, equal and welcoming for all.