Congratulations on taking the first steps to becoming an Australian Citizen.
The City’s role in the Citizenship process is to conduct citizenship ceremonies and to present candidates with their citizenship certificates. Local governments only facilitate the ceremony process, this is the final requirement to become an Australian citizen.
The Department of Home Affairs role is to process and approve your citizenship application, all enquiries regarding becoming an Australian citizen should be directed to this department.
How do I apply for Australian Citizenship?
Please contact the Department of Home Affairs for details on how to apply for Australian Citizenship by one of the following:
- Phone the Citizenship Information Line on 13 18 80
- Visit the Australian Citizenship website
- In person at Wellington Central, 836 Wellington Street, West Perth WA 6005
- By post to Locked Bag 7, Northbridge WA 6865
I have received my letter of approval. When can I attend a Ceremony?
The City will provide you with a ceremony date once notification is received from the Department of Home Affairs that your citizenship status has been approved. These notifications are received from the Department on an unscheduled basis.
How long will I have to wait before I get an invitation to my Ceremony?
Once the Department has approved your citizenship status and the City receives a report with your details, an invitation will be sent to you inviting you to the next available Citizenship Ceremony. Invitations are sent out 6 weeks prior to a ceremony.
Do I need to attend a ceremony to receive my certificate?
Yes. Candidates are required to attend a Citizenship Ceremony and take the Pledge of Commitment in order to validate their citizenship and receive their certificate. An applicant does not become a citizen until they have read out aloud the Pledge of Commitment.
What if I can’t attend the next scheduled citizenship ceremony?
Notify the City as soon as possible if you cannot attend the ceremony you have been invited to and we will transfer your name and details to the next scheduled ceremony.
How long does the Citizenship Ceremony take?
The Citizenship Ceremony generally takes 40 to 60 minutes
When and where are the ceremonies held?
The City holds citizenship ceremonies every 3 months at the Kalgoorlie Town Hall or Centennial Park. The City will send you an invitation once notification has been received.
IMPORTANT: It is important to RSVP to the letter from the City to confirm your attendance.
What do I need to bring with me to the ceremony?
You are required to bring with you photographic identification such as your current driver’s licence or passport.
If you do not hold a driver’s licence or current passport, additional forms of identification include:
- credit cards
- Medicare card
- bills showing your name and current address.
These documents are required as proof of identification by the City and the Australian Electoral Commission.
You must fill out and sign the “Enrolment to Vote” form which will be given to you at the ceremony. You can fill it out on the day or take the form away to fill out in your own time and return to: Australian Electoral Commission, PO Box 10070, Kalgoorlie WA 6430.
What Pledge am I taking? What is the difference between an oath and an affirmation?
There are 2 Pledges, one that mentions God (oath) and one that does not (affirmation). You will receive your nominated Pledge on a Pledge card when you attend your ceremony. If you are making an oath, you are welcome to bring a holy book of your choice to make your Pledge on.
Can I bring guests along?
Yes. Friends and family are more than welcome to attend the ceremony.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual attire is requested.
Can I take photographs?
Guests are allowed to take photos if they wish.
Do children need to attend Citizenship Ceremonies?
Children aged 16 years of age and over are required to attend a Citizenship Ceremony to take the Pledge of Commitment and receive their certificate. Children under the age of 16 usually are classed as a dependent and will usually be approved with a parent or guardian.
When can I apply for an Australian passport?
You must attend your ceremony and receive your citizenship certificate before you can apply for an Australian passport.
The original certificate will be required when applying for a passport. For more information about Australian passports, please visit or call the Australian Passport Office on 131 232.
I have lost my Citizenship Certificate, what should I do?
The City cannot re-issue or replace Citizenship Certificates. You will need to contact the Department of Immigration and Border Protection on 131 880 to arrange a replacement certificate.