What's new for Australian citizenship

Strengthening the test for Australian citizenship

The Australian Citizenship Legislation Amendment (Strengthening the Requirements for Australian Citizenship and Other Measures) Bill 2017 (the Bill) was introduced into Parliament on 15 June 2017.

This is the next step in the process to implement the commitment made by the Australian Government on 20 April 2017, for citizenship applicants to pledge their allegiance to Australia and undertake to uphold Australian values and demonstrate their contribution to the Australian community.

This Bill implements the commitment made by the Australian Government to strengthen the requirements for Australian citizenship and the integrity and effectiveness of the citizenship programme, providing a clear legislative framework to underpin the Government's policy.

Underpinning a diverse and harmonious Australia is the security of our nation. The Government places the highest priority on the safety and security of all Australians. Recent terrorist attacks around the world have justifiably caused concern in the Australian community.

The measures set out in this Bill are integral to Australia’s our future as a strong and successful multicultural nation, united by our allegiance to Australia and committed to freedom and prosperity.

The 2015 National Consultation on Citizenship – Your Right, Your Responsibility indicated strong community support for strengthening the test for Australian citizenship. The Australian Government is strengthening the test for Australian citizenship in response to this consultation.
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The proposed changes are outlined in Strengthening the test for Australian Citizenship

Source: Department of Immigration and Border Protection