Citizenship
Becoming an Australian Citizen represents a commitment to Australia and its people. All applications for Australian Citizenship are processed by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Further information on how to apply for Australian Citizenship is available from the Australian Citizenship website or the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880.
For most people, the final step in becoming an Australian Citizen is making the pledge of commitment at an Australian Citizenship Ceremony. Applicants for Australian Citizenship will generally be invited to attend a ceremony within three to six months from the date their application is approved. You will receive a written invitation to your ceremony from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
While the City of Salisbury hosts Australian Citizenship Ceremonies, the Council is unable to provide further information regarding the timing of your Ceremony. All Ceremony enquiries should be directed to the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880.
Who's eligible to apply for citizenship?
You may be eligible for Australian citizenship if you:
- Are a permanent resident of Australia;
- Are able to speak and understand basic English
- Understand the nature of the application
- Understand the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship
- Are of good character
- Intend to reside in Australia, or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.
Most applicants for Australian citizenship must be permanent residents of Australia. People who became permanent residents on or after 1 July 2007 must:
- Have been lawfully resident in Australia for four years immediately prior to making an application including 12 months as a permanent resident; and
- Have not been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in that four year period and no more than three months in the 12 months prior to the application
- People who became permanent residents before 1 July 2007 must have been present in Australia as a permanent resident for periods amounting to two years in the last five years including one year in the two years immediately prior to making the application provided an application is lodged by 30 June 2010.
To apply for Australian Citizenship, for those that are between 18-60 years old, you need to pass the Australian Citizenship Test. If you are under 18 or over 60, please visit the Australian Citizenship website for further details.
There are some exceptions to the above criteria. These can be further explained by telephoning the Australian Citizenship Enquiries line 131 880, or by visiting the Australian Citizenship website.
How to apply
If you need an application form for citizenship, please call the Australian Citizenship Line on 131 880 or visit the Australian Citizenship website.
What does it cost to apply?
For up to date prices, telephone the Australian Citizenship Enquiries line 13 1880 or visit the Australian Citizenship website.
How long will it take?
The process takes approximately three months from the application to the citizenship ceremony. Enquiries about speeding up the process should be directed to the Australian Citizenship Enquiries line on 131 880.
More information
For more information on these topics, you may like to visit the Australian Citizenship website or the Department For Home Affairs website.