A Derrimut family of five were all smiles when they became Australian citizens at the Melbourne Town Hall recently.
When Michael Laureano, wife Myla and their three sons left the Philippines five years ago to begin a new life in Melbourne they were anxious about whether they would fit in.
“We were unsure if we could easily adapt to the lifestyle, the food, the weather, the people,” Mr Laureano said. “But all went well. The people were accommodating and we felt welcomed in the community.”
They now work in telecommunications, but Michael and Myla say finding employment on their arrival during the global financial crisis wasn’t easy.
“It took me 10 months to get back in my line of work, while my wife volunteered in the hospital for one year until finally gaining employment,” Mr Laureano said. But the family has found much to enjoy in their adopted country.
“We love the work-life balance here. We appreciate the quality of life and the availability of space and nature, as well as the good education and health system,” Mr Laureano added.
“The variety of cross-cultural differences is interesting. It’s like a big party where everyone brings a bit from their culture for everyone
to share.”
Mr Laureano said becoming Australian citizens meant much more than changing countries. “Becoming citizens means we have finally made Australia our new home and we’re looking forward to continue building it along with the rest of the community.”
