Australian Citizenship ceremonies go digital

Published on 07 October 2021

History occurred on Tuesday, 5 October when Gannawarra Shire Council conducted its first Australian Citizenship ceremony online.

Kerang residents Fredrick Mugambi, Nancy Mathenge-Mugambi, Jerry Madiga and Jesse Madiga became Australian citizens during the online event, held via the Gannawarra Shire Council website.

“Due to COVID-19 restrictions in place at this time, Council was not able to celebrate Frederick, Nancy, Jerry and Jesse’s special time in person, but thanks to digital technology, this milestone could still proceed,” Mayor Charlie Gillingham said.

“By holding the ceremony online, it enabled Frederick, Nancy, Jerry and Jesse to share this achievement with their family and friends locally and in other parts of the world.”

Gannawarra Shire Council holds up to four citizenship ceremonies annually, which is the final step in residents’ journey to become an Australian citizen.

“Australian Citizenship ceremonies fulfil the requirements under Australian citizenship law and provides an opportunity for Council to officially welcome its new citizens,” Mayor Gillingham said.

To view the Gannawarra’s first online Australian Citizenship ceremony, please visit https://vimeo.com/618612536

For more information regarding Australian Citizenship, please visit www.gsc.vic.gov.au/citizenship