Tate Papworth
Brimbank has welcomed more than 500 new Australian citizens during the COVID-19 crisis, in an online citizenship milestone delivering joy and new beginnings.
One of Victoria’s most diverse municipalities and home to more than 200,000 people in Melbourne’s western suburbs, Brimbank hit the milestone on Thursday, August 13.
A total of 509 Brimbank residents have now taken the pledge to become Australian citizens during the pandemic, with a little help from technology.
They hailed from 61 countries as diverse as Afghanistan, Chile, Eritrea, Jamaica, Romania, the United States and Vietnam.
Mayor Georgina Papafotiou said there was no shortage of enthusiasm when Brimbank conferees were asked if they would be willing to take the citizenship pledge online.
“It’s been wonderful and humbling to be present for something that means so much to them – becoming an Australian citizen, a lifelong commitment,” Cr Papafotiou said.
“Council staff have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this happen for our community members, and I would like to acknowledge their dedication in helping make a few dreams come true for our new citizens.”
Brimbank became the first municipality in the west to offer online citizenship ceremonies back in June.
Ceremonies are conducted via Zoom to comply with restrictions on gatherings and social distancing measures.
Sunshine North resident Asad Gill took part in Brimbank’s first online citizenship ceremony.
He wore a suit he had made in his home country of Pakistan, decorated the house in Australian flags and balloons while his five family members and friends (the maximum allowed at the time) watched on proudly.
“It’s like a dream come true. If I would not have been here in Australia, my life would have been very different.
“This is my country, and I will do my best to give back what Australia has given me,’ he said.
