Citizenship Ceremonies

Hornsby Shire Council takes great pride in being able to help you take the final step to become an Australian citizen.

How often are citizenship ceremonies held?

Hornsby Shire Council conducts citizenship ceremonies each month. Click here to see the schedule of ceremony dates. Dates may be subject to change.

What is involved?

The ceremonies consist of:

• The reading of a message from the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs
• Citizenship Preamble
• Pledge of commitment to the Commonwealth of Australia
• National Anthem

Advice on issuing of citizenship certificates

You can apply for Australian Citizenship or check the status of your application by phoning the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 or by visiting the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) website. Your application will be processed by the DOHA and, if successful, they will notify you.

You will then be invited to attend your ceremony about four weeks before the event. A letter of invitation from the Department of Home Affairs will be sent to you.

The invitation shows the date, time, and venue of the ceremony. Please ensure that your email address is up to date on the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount.

I have received my letter of approval. When can I attend a ceremony?

The application process is lengthy and a waiting time of up to three to six months can occur between your approval and your ceremony. The DOHA will send you a letter of invitation telling you the date and time your ceremony will take place.

Where are the ceremonies held?

Ceremonies are conducted at Hornsby Shire Council Chambers 296 Peats Ferry Road, Hornsby.

How long does the Citizenship Ceremony take?

Currently ceremonies are completed within 20-30 minutes.

Do I need to attend a ceremony to receive my certificate?

Yes, attending your Citizenship Ceremony is compulsory. Candidates need to make their Pledge in order to validate their citizenship and receive their certificate

What if I cannot attend the ceremony?

Please contact Hornsby Shire Council on 9847 6667. We will advise the DOHA and you will be allocated another ceremony date.

What do I need to bring to the ceremony?

Please bring your current Australian photo identification such as a drivers license or passport. If you do not have photo identification please bring at least three documents bearing your name, address and signature. Examples include bank statements, credit cards or bills.

These documents are also required as proof of identification by the Australian Electoral Commission to allow you to vote in Australian elections.

Can I bring guests along to the ceremony?

You are welcome to bring family and friends to this special occasion, however due to the size of the room, guest spaces are limited. Please let us know if you intend to bring more than one guest.

Do children need to attend Citizenship Ceremonies?

Children aged 16 years and under are not legally required to attend the ceremony, though they are welcome to attend and participate where possible. If a child does not attend the parent whom the child is registered under can collect the certificate on their behalf at the ceremony.

When can I apply for an Australian Passport?

Please allow a minimum of 10 days before applying for your Australian Passport. Please note your original citizenship certificate will be needed when applying for an Australian passport. For more information please visit the Australian Passport Office or call them on 131 232.

What should I wear?

Smart/casual dress attire is worn at citizenship ceremonies.

Who can I contact with further questions?

Please phone 9847 6667 or email ldestradis@hornsby.nsw.gov.au with any questions about citizenship ceremonies.

For information on eligibility and how to apply to be an Australian citizen, please contact the DOHA Citizenship Information Line on 131 880 or visit Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) website.

We advise that all client information is handled by Department of Home Affairs, not Council. The Department of Home Affairs can only allocate clients to attend a ceremony, not Council.