Australian Citizenship
The Shire of Mingenew conducts Australian Citizenship Ceremonies on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs. A citizenship ceremony is where you make the Australian citizenship pledge. For most people, this is the final step in the journey to becoming an Australian.
The Shire of Mingenew will provide a ceremony date once a Conferral Planning report is received from the Department of Home Affairs. These reports are sent to the Shire of Mingenew as required. Once the Shire receives these, we will contact conferees (those applying for citizenship).
The information provided below may answer any further questions that you may have.
How do I apply for Australian citizenship?
The process for applying for Australian citizenship varies depending on your eligibility. There are a number of different application options with different eligibility requirements.
Generally to apply for Australian citizenship you will need to:
Determine that you are eligible
Gather your original documents
Copy and certify your documents
Complete and lodge your application
A decision on your application for citizenship will only be made after you have lodged a completed application form together with the required documents and fee.
For further information visit the Department of Home Affairs website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship/ceremony.
How can I find out when my citizenship ceremony will be?
The Shire of Mingenew is unable to provide a ceremony date until we receive the Conferral Planning report from the Department of Home Affairs. These reports are sent to the Shire of Mingenew as and when required. Once the Shire receives these, you will be contacted to discuss arrangements for a ceremony.
When and where are citizenship ceremonies held?
Citizenship ceremonies are held on a needs basis. When the Shire receives the conferral report from the Department of Home Affairs the Shire will send out correspondence to arrange a ceremony (please allow up to three weeks from notification to ensure a Certificate can be prepared and issued for the ceremony). Generally, citizenship ceremonies are held in the Council Chambers.
How long does the citizenship ceremony run for?
The Shire of Mingenew’s citizenship ceremony runs for approximately half an hour. Refreshments may be provided for recipients and their guests at the conclusion of each ceremony.
Do children need to attend citizenship ceremonies?
Children aged 16 years and over are legally required to attend an Australian Citizenship Ceremony. Children under the age of 16 are not legally required to attend the ceremony, however they are welcome to attend. Any child under 16 who us included on your application will become a citizen at the same time as you.
How many guests can I bring to the ceremony?
There is generally no restriction on the number of guests however, prior approval is required for more than 4 adult guests.
What do I need to bring?
If over 18 years, please bring a form of identification (Driver’s licence, Passport etc).
Will I receive my certificate at the ceremony?
Provided you have been booked into a ceremony three weeks prior to the ceremony date, you should receive your certificate on the day of the ceremony. The Department of Home Affairs require three weeks’ notice to order and print your certificate in time for the ceremony date.
Your citizenship certificate will be issued in the name you gave on your application form, which should be your legal name at the time your citizenship was approved.
Your citizenship certificate is an important legal document, which you should look after. You will need it when you apply to get an Australian passport.
I have lost my citizenship certificate, what can I do?
If you have lost your citizenship certificate you will need to contact the Department of Home Affairs on 131 881 to arrange a replacement. The Shire of Chittering cannot issue or replace citizenship certificates.
Who can I contact for further information about applying for citizenship?
The Department of Home Affairs (Immigration and Citizenship) can be contacted on 131 880 (for queries within Australia). It is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.