Expats who have purchased property in Australia are being encouraged by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) and Bathurst Regional Council to officially become citizens of the country.
Department officers will be travelling to Bathurst later this year to conduct citizenship tests.
A spokesperson from the DIAC explained that there are many benefits of becoming an Australian citizen, such as freedom of speech and freedom of choice across all areas of life, such as politics, religion and education.
"Citizenship also carries important responsibilities that help make Australia fair, just and safe, such as the obligation to obey the laws of the country and respect for the rights of other people," the representative added.
Those who apply to become a citizen before the end of August will be able to take their test in Bathurst later in the year and then they will have the rare chance to participate in a citizenship ceremony on Australia Day (January 26th).
Figures from National Australia Bank recently revealed that up to nine per cent of houses for sale next year will be bought by expats, the Australian newspaper reported.
Posted by Steve Douglas
