Citizenship Surge in Lake Macquarie Welcomes Over 180 New Australians

newy.com.au – More than 180 people from 41 different countries were officially welcomed as Australian citizens on 18 July 2025, during a series of ceremonies held at Rathmines Theatre, marking one of the largest citizenship events in Lake Macquarie’s history.

The high demand for citizenship saw back-to-back ceremonies hosted throughout the day, with participants ranging in age and background. Among those sworn in were Holly Simpson from the United Kingdom and Andrea Simich Padilla from Peru, a married couple who met through water polo in Sydney. “I grew up watching Neighbours and Home and Away, and living in the UK the weather is never good,” said Ms Simpson. “Luckily, I did some solo travel in Australia and New Zealand and absolutely fell in love with Australia. Today the dream becomes true. It hasn’t been an easy path, but it has absolutely been worth it.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz acknowledged the significance of the occasion, noting the transformation Australian citizenship has undergone since its inception in 1949. “More than six million people have become Australian citizens since citizenship was introduced,” he said. “Times have changed but one constant has been the contribution our new citizens from all corners of the globe have made to Australian society. Their traditions, culture, food, languages and religions diversify and enrich our communities, and make our country what it is today.”

Historical trends in migration have shifted significantly over the decades. In the 1950s, most new citizens came from European nations such as Italy, Poland, Greece, Germany and the former Yugoslavia. Today, India, the UK, the Philippines, Pakistan and Iraq are the leading countries of origin for citizenship applicants.

Dr Alyce Barnes, Lake Macquarie Ambassador, addressed attendees during the first ceremony, highlighting the importance of shared values in defining what it means to be Australian. “To me, being Australian is more than just where you live,” she said. “It’s about the values we share – kindness, respect, fairness and looking out for one another. It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. It means showing up, lending a hand and embracing people from all walks of life.”