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Media Release
19 October 2006Council encourages the community to comment on new citizenship discussion paper
Yarra City Council is encouraging local residents to respond to the Federal Government's Citizenship Discussion Paper Australian Citizenship: Much more than a Ceremony.
Mayor of Yarra City Council, Cr Jackie Fristacky, said t he Australian Citizenship Discussion Paper raised questions about some proposed and fundamental changes to the way in which individuals may access and achieve citizenship in Australia .
"We want our culturally diverse community to consider the Federal Government's proposal to introduce a formal citizenship test, including a commitment to Australian values," she said.
"Almost 25% of Yarra residents speak a language other than English at home and almost 30% were born overseas.
"I believe Yarra's colourful and diverse community is already committed to Australian values. Under the current system, I witness around 70 people a month proudly taking the pledge to become Australian citizens.
"Many are newly arrived humanitarian refugees with poor English skills, but who are grateful to have the opportunity to become Australian citizens.
"Will the proposals in the discussion paper prevent people, who want to be Australian, from becoming Australian citizens? An alternative focus is to provide more funds and support to assist those who want to learn English, find work and participate more in their local communities.
"This process is also a good opportunity for us to review our own citizenship ceremonies to ensure they are accessible and meaningful to all who take part.
"The City of Yarra has a strong history in supporting and advocating on behalf of culturally diverse communities. I want to encourage everyone to respond to the Federal Government's proposed changes to the Citizenship process," the Mayor said.
Council will also be making a formal submission to the discussion paper following extensive consultation with a range of multicultural organisations and community health centres.
Council has so far contacted local government peak bodies to take up this issue on behalf of Victorian communities.
Council's submission will be considered at the Human Services and Community Development Committee on 14 of November, 2006.
The Community is encouraged to put in submissions directly to the Federal Government. Deadline for submissions or comments is 17 November 2006.
Copies of the Federal Government's Discussion Paper can be found online at http://www.citizenship.gov.au/news/DIMA_Citizenship_Discussion_Paper.pdf where electronic submissions can be lodged.
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