Citizenship ceremonies
The City of Kingston holds regular citizenship ceremonies to welcome new Australian citizens on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs.
The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for citizenship applications, approvals and when you can participate in a ceremony.
Successful applicants are required to attend a citizenship ceremony as the final step of being granted Australian Citizenship.
For information on wait times, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
What happens at a citizenship ceremony?
You should allow for up to two hours for the ceremony.
Once the ceremony starts there will be:
- a formal introduction
- speeches
- an address to participants
- the pledge of commitment
- National Anthem
The presiding officer will ask you to repeat the Australian citizenship pledge out loud.
You will become an Australian citizen after you make the pledge.
Where and when are citizenship ceremonies held?
2024 Citizenship Ceremony Dates
Ceremonies take place at Kingston City Hall, 985 Nepean Highway (view map).
In 2025, Ceremonies will take place on:
Instructions for your ceremony
Your invitation to the ceremony will be emailed to you. The invitation will include the time and date as well as what you need to do to confirm your attendance.
You will also receive information about:
- the event format/schedule
- identification
- guests
- dress code
- transport options and parking
- instructions on how to participate in an online ceremony (when applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend a City of Kingston ceremony?
To attend a City of Kingston ceremony you must be a citizenship candidate AND live within the City of Kingston.
How do I apply for citizenship?
The Department of Home Affairs is responsible for citizenship applications, approvals and when you can participate in a citizenship ceremony.
To find out more visit the Department of Home Affairs website or contact 131 880.
What should I bring for identification?
You need to bring your invitation to the ceremony and one form of photo identification:
- driver's license
- passport, or
- an official document with a photograph
If you do not have photo identification, bring at least three (3) documents showing your name, address and signature:
- bank statement
- utility bill
- credit card statement
When do I get my citizenship certificate?
After you have made the pledge, you will receive your citizenship certificate.
If your certificate is not ready at the ceremony, it will be posted to you.
Your certificate is evidence of Australian citizenship once you have made the pledge.
Can I bring guests?
You are encouraged to bring guests to witness you take the Pledge and celebrate the occasion. There are no restrictions on the number of guests you can bring, however please be advised guest must sit in a separate section of the Hall from the conferees.
What is the dress code?
The ceremony is an important event where you make a commitment to Australia.
You and your guests should be dressed in formal or smart casual clothing, or your national or cultural dress, and groomed to reflect its significance.
How do I get to the event? Is there parking?
City of Kingston promotes sustainable transport to all our events. To reduce your carbon footprint, consider getting to our events by using public transport if available, car sharing, or walking or cycling instead of driving. Plan your trip via the PTV website.
Please be aware that there is very limited parking at the venue and restricted parking in surrounding streets. Plan to arrive well before the close of registration.
View the parking map of Kingston City Hall and surrounds.