Australian Citizenship Day Celebrated

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More than 3600 people from 118 countries became citizens at 68 ceremonies across Australia as part of Australian Citizenship Day on 17 September 2010.

Chris Bowen, Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, said that citizenship is a "bond which unites" all Australians.

"Australian Citizenship Day is a time for all Australians to take pride in their citizenship and reflect on the meaning of being a citizen of this great nation," he said.

"It is also a special day for our newest Australians to join the Australian community at ceremonies across the country," he added.

"Becoming an Australian citizen is a step that shows commitment and loyalty to this country and the desire to share a common future."

The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) and local government councils hosted citizenship ceremonies in state and territory capital cities, major metropolitan centres and regional towns across Australia.

School children also helped celebrate Australian Citizenship Day with several schools holding special "affirmation ceremonies" to commemorate the event.