Tasmania Australia :
Tasmania welcomes 260 new citizens from 44 countries

More than 260 people from 44 countries are to gain Australian citizenship at ceremonies around Tasmania today. Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Tasmanian State Director Doug Walker said taking up the privilege of citizenship was a great expression of loyalty and commitment to the Australian way of life. ‘The new citizens come from a broad range of backgrounds in 44 countries spread across every continent,’ Mr Walker said. ‘People with a background in the United Kingdom and New Zealand are well represented, as are people from African nations. ‘The new citizens also bring diverse skills – today’s conferees include medical practitioners, orchard workers and interpreters.’ Citizenship ceremonies will also be held today at Beaconsfield, Bellerive, Burnie, Devonport, Glenorchy, Launceston, Meander, Scottsdale, Smithton, Wynyard and St Helens. The events in Tasmania are among 280 ceremonies around Australia today where more than 12 500 people from 111 countries will gain citizenship. ‘There is something very special about taking out Australian citizenship,’ Mr Walker said. ‘Everyone who takes that step today will bring their own unique talents and experiences to further enrich the broader Australian community. ‘All our new citizens are encouraged to embrace the opportunities Australia has to offer,’ Mr Walker added.