Citizenship

Become an Australian Citizen ...

All eligible permanent residents who wish to make their commitment to Australia by becoming Australian citizens are welcome to apply for grant of Australian Citizenship.

Who is eligible for citizenship?

You may be granted Australian Citizenship if:

• you are a permanent resident of Australia, and
• you have been present in Australia as a permanent resident for a total of at least two years in the last five years, and a total of at least twelve months in the last two years, and
• you are able to speak and understand basic English, and
• you understand the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship, and
• you are of good character, and
• you intend to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.
  

(Note: Exemptions from these normal requirements are listed in the application kit)

Application Forms

An application for grant of Australian Citizenship can be obtained from the offices of the District Council of Tumby Bay or Australia Post in a kit form. The kit contains an information sheet, two copies of the application form, electoral enrolment information and a return envelope.

Application Cost

The current fee for the grant of Australian citizenship is $120. Holders of concession cards may be eligible for a concession of $20.

Where to Lodge your Application?

All completed applications must be accompanied by a fee and should be forwarded to the office of the Department of Immigration, Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs, GPO Box 2399, Adelaide, SA, 5001.
(Note: Please do not send cash through the mail)

What happens next?

The Department of Immigration, Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) aims to finalise citizenship applications within three months of lodgment. Less complex applications are finalised within one month, while more complex ones can take longer. All applicants are required to attend an interview. The DIMIA office will advise the applicant on when to arrange for an interview, which is held at the Australia Post office by the Postal Manager.

Citizenship Ceremony

Successful applicants must attend a Citizenship ceremony, the final step in becoming an Australian Citizen. A citizenship certificate, which is the legal proof of Australian Citizenship, is presented at the end of the ceremony.

Ceremonies are arranged on a needs basis, however, a private ceremony can be arranged if there is an urgent need for a Citizenship Certificate for passport applications, job applications etc.

More Information

Contact the Council Office 8688 2101 for assistance on the above. You can also contact the Citizenship Enquiry Line on 131 881 or visit the Citizenship homepage.