Citizenship

Citizenship ceremonies are administered by the City of Ballarat on behalf of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). Ceremonies are held monthly and are open to members of the public.

Australian citizenship brings both rights and responsibilities. Australian citizens can:

• live in Australia
• apply for an Australian passport and to leave and re-enter Australia without applying for a resident return visa
• seek assistance from Australian diplomatic representatives whilst overseas
• vote to help elect Australia's governments
• stand for Parliament
• work in the public service
• serve in the armed forces
• register as Australian citizens by descent of any of your children born overseas after you become an Australian citizen

Australian citizens are required to:

• obey Australian laws
• enrol on federal and state/territory electoral registers
• vote in elections
• defend Australia should the need arise
• serve on a jury if called to do so

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you eligible?

The requirements of Australian citizenship eligibility changed on 1 October 2007. People who apply must:  

1. have successfully completed a citizenship test before applying
2. be aged 18 years or over at the time the application is made
3. be a permanent resident
4. satisfy the residence requirement
5. be likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia
6. be of good character

(exemptions exist for some requirements - see www.citizenship.gov.au for further details).

How do you apply?

• Pass the Australian Citizenship Test - The resource book, Becoming an Australian Citizen, will help you prepare for the citizenship test. All test question will be based on the content of this book. It is highly recommended that you study the book prior to making a test booking. Bookings for the Citizenship test can be made on 131 880.
• Complete the form and pay the fee - you can apply online from the DIAC website at www.citizenship.gov.au/law-and-policy/forms, or forms are also available by calling 131 880. Completed forms should be lodged online or with DIAC in Melbourne and the fee paid. If your application is approved, you will be contacted by the department about your citizenship ceremony. If your application is not approved, you will be advised of any review rights.
• Attend a citizenship ceremony - in Ballarat, citizenship ceremonies are administered by the Governance Unit (governanceunit@ballarat.vic.gov.au or 03 5320 5543). Once you have been approved, DIAC will forward your certificate to the City of Ballarat. You will be allocated to the next available citizenship ceremony (see above for scheduled dates) and a letter with the arrangements will be forwarded to you. You will need to confirm your attendance and the number of guests you will be bringing.

How does the test work?

The Australian citizenship test has been designed to assist people who want to become Australian citizens to gain an understanding of Australia's values, traditions, history and national symbols.  The test will:

• be in English
• be computer based
• consist of 20 multiple choice questions
• include three mandatory questions, based on the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship
• have a pass mark of 60% including correctly answering all three mandatory questions.

There will not be a separate English language test; your English language skills will be measured by your ability to pass the test which is available in English only.

How much does an application cost?

The standard application fee is currently $240. A concession fee is available to applicants who have a permanent financial disadvantage and are recipients of certain pensions from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans' Affairs. The fee payable is $40. Evidence of eligibility for a fee concession is required.

How long does an application take to process?

Processing time can vary; around 90% of applications are decided within 90 days of lodgement. Usually the City of Ballarat will receive your printed certificate up to six weeks after you receive your letter of approval.

How can you find out more?

Citizenship Information Line: 131 880

DIAC website:www.citizenship.gov.au - the website also includes information on citizenship for spouses and children, citizenship by descent, dual citizenship and other related subjects.