Citizenship ceremonies
Woollahra Council hosts regular Citizenship Ceremonies (usually every 5-7 weeks) and we aim to minimise waiting time for ceremonies. It is important to remember applications and approvals are administered by the Department of Home Affairs.
Woollahra Council hosts the citizenship ceremonies based on the information relating to approved conferees supplied to us by the Department of Home Affairs. We host ceremonies at the Council Chambers and the approximate duration is 1 hour. Conferees are welcome to bring up to three guests. Conferees will be notified by the Department of Home Affairs of their ceremony date and details.
To enquire about your ceremony date, conferees or their legal representatives should contact the Department of Home Affairs or call the Citizenship Information Line on 131 880.
Australian Citizenship represents formal membership to the community of the Commonwealth and is a common bond, involving reciprocal rights and obligations, uniting all Australians, while respecting their diversity.
The ceremony is the formal part of the Citizenship process. You become an Australian citizen on the date you attend the citizenship ceremony and make the Pledge of Commitment to Australia. View information on passport applications.
If you receive an invitation to a Citizenship Ceremony and you do not attend, your name automatically goes back onto the waiting list and you will receive an invitation to the following Ceremony.
Update for new citizens who attended our Wednesday 7 August ceremony:
The Department of Home Affairs have re-commenced printing of Australian citizenship certificates and will send certificates directly to any individuals who have attended a ceremony as soon as possible. Please contact the Department directly should you have any questions.
What to bring
Once you have received your letter from the Department of Home Affairs inviting you to attend a Citizenship Ceremony at Woollahra Council, please bring your letter and a current form of photo identification such as a driver’s licence or passport.
On the night
Woollahra Council acknowledges the importance of your citizenship ceremony by hosting the event and providing you with complimentary photographs, a small native seedling, and refreshments on the terrace afterwards to commemorate the occasion.
Our dress code for everyone attending the event is smart casual. You are welcome to wear more formal attire.
For further information regarding Australian citizenship including ceremonies, applications or general enquiries visit the Citizenship website or contact the Department of Home Affairs on 131 880.