LNP – Australian PM recognises new citizens including those from Sri Lanka

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recognised Australia’s new citizens including those from Sri Lanka, as Australia celebrated Australia Day on Sunday.

Ceremonies were held across Australia to celebrate Australia Day and formally grant citizenship to new Australians.

The main ceremony took place in Canberra with the participation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“Today, in our big cities and country towns, at beaches and backyard barbecues, and in over 280 ceremonies like this one, we celebrate everything that brings Australia together and everything that sets our nation apart from the world,” the Australian Prime Minister said.

He welcomed 24 of the new citizens who took their seats at the ceremony as citizens of Brazil, France, Germany, India, Nigeria, the Philippines, South Africa, the United States, Sri Lanka and Vietnam but left as Australians.

“It’s an honour to share this moment with you and your loved ones. You will always remember this Australia Day, your first day as an Australian,” the Prime Minister said.

He said the seven people who received their citizenship at the first event 76 years ago and the more than 6 million who have followed belong to the same proud story.

“We are all part of a nation built by hope and hard work, aspiration and determination.

A democracy where every citizen counts themselves equal,” he added.

The Prime Minister called Australia the “greatest country on earth” and called on Australians to seize the opportunity to make it even better in the future.