Thirty-one new Aussies welcomed to the Scenic Rim

Some of the Scenic Rim's newest Australians following the Australia Day citizenship ceremony

Thirty-one Scenic Rim residents from 17 nations were welcomed at a special Australia Day citizenship ceremony at The Centre Beaudesert during the seventy-fifth anniversary of Australia citizenship.

The ceremony was held in conjunction with the 2024 Scenic Rim Australia Day Awards and recognised the region’s community champions who make the Scenic Rim one of the best places to live in Australia.

Now calling the Scenic Rim home, the migrants hailed from New Zealand, Iran, Türkiye, the United States, Thailand, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Italy, the Philippines, Indonesia, Dominica, the Russian Federation, Samoa, China and England.

Mayor Greg Christensen said he was honoured to welcome the region’s newest Australians and be part of their journeys from migrants to Australian citizens.

“Australian citizenship is a common bond, involving reciprocal rights and obligations, uniting all Australians, while representing their diversity,” Mayor Christensen told the citizenship candidates.

“Our diversity is our greatest strength, and we prosper by embracing this.

“As Mayor, I can say with confidence that you are not only becoming a citizen of a great country - but you are also now a part of the Richest Place on Earth, in Australia - the Scenic Rim.”

Relaying a message from the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, the Honourable Andrew Giles MP, Mayor Christensen said Australia was one of the world’s most successful multicultural societies.

“In Australia, everyone can be proud of who they are - and everyone should be respected, valued, and feel a sense of belonging.

“We believe in a society in which everyone is equal, regardless of their gender, faith, sexual orientation, age, ability, race, nationality or ethnic origin.

“Ours is the land of the fair go, in which respect and compassion underpin our care for each other and our willingness to reach out to those around us in times of need.

“By becoming an Australian citizen, you make a commitment to these values, and to contribute to our evolving Australian story.”

Scenic Rim’s 31 new citizens were among thousands of people who pledged their loyalty to Australia and its people, democratic beliefs, rights, liberties, and laws at citizenship ceremonies held nationwide on Australia Day.

“Becoming an Australian citizen does not mean turning your back on your country of origin,” Mayor Christensen said.

“It does not mean you have to forget the language of the country or its customs or culture.

"Instead we ask you to share these valuable assets so that Australians can become more tolerant and understanding.

“On behalf of the people of Australia, and especially the Scenic Rim, I congratulate all of you on becoming Australian citizens and hope you enjoy a happy and prosperous future.”

The Scenic Rim’s newest Australians are: