More than 2,700 people from 89 countries will celebrate Australia Day today by taking the pledge to become Australian citizens at 78 ceremonies held across Western Australia.
Attending the State's biggest ceremony held in the City of Wanneroo today, Premier Colin Barnett welcomed 800 of the State's newest citizens from 49 different countries.
"With large ceremonies held in the cities of Wanneroo, Joondalup, Stirling and Cockburn, as well as regional centres including Geraldton, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Karratha, I'd like to personally welcome each of the 2,744 people who have become citizens today," the Premier said.
"Western Australia has the benefit of being one of Australia's most multicultural States and has attracted a significant number of migrants, who have all become valued members of our community. The development of Western Australia owes much to the hard work, valuable skills and commitment of those who have chosen to make this State their home.
"Australia Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the role our citizens play in building this State and the nation."
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Mike Nahan said many citizenship ceremonies were combined with the presentation of Community Citizen of the Year awards, which were offered in every WA local government area.
"These awards recognise the valuable contributions and celebrate the active citizenship of West Australians at a local community level," Dr Nahan said.
"I encourage all new Australians to embrace the responsibilities and privileges that come with being a citizen. We all have an individual and collective responsibility to build a positive, cohesive and harmonious community."
Fact File
The top five countries of origin for WA's 2,744 new citizens are the United Kingdom (897 people), South Africa (260), India (242), Ireland (235) and the Philippines (228)
More than 21,000 people became Australian citizens in WA in 2015-16
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister's office - 6552 5700
