More new Australians than ever are making their homes in Murray Bridge
Another 29 immigrants have taken their pledges on Australian Citizenship Day 2025.
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More and more families from around the world are choosing to make the Murraylands their permanent home.
More than 80 new Australians have taken their citizenship pledges in Murray Bridge so far this year, a number than has gradually risen each year since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The latest group participated in a formal ceremony at Murray Bridge Performing Arts and Function Centre last Wednesday: Australian Citizenship Day.
Among them were immigrants from the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Mauritius, New Zealand and seven other countries.
Murray Bridge Mayor Wayne Thorley received their pledges on behalf of the federal government, and spoke about the significance of the step the men, women and children were taking.
“I know it’s not an easy journey to become a citizen,” he said.
“I’m pleased to see so many candidates here today, and I’d like to congratulate each of you on your decision.”
Australia’s strength lay in its people, he said.
It was thanks to Australians from all over the world that ours was “a vibrant, open and diverse society which we can all be proud of”.
One by one, the 29 new neighbours crossed the stage to receive a gift from the council, including a little Australian flag.
The new citizens added to another 31 who took their pledges on Australia Day in Murray Bridge, and 23 at the All Culture Fest in June.
Hundreds more have settled in neighbouring districts, or have made homes in the region but not yet become naturalised, since Australia’s borders reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Australian Citizenship Day has been celebrated on September 17 each year since 2001.
It coincides with Welcoming Week, an international campaign which encourages neighbours and communities to come together, build connections and be inclusive.
Murray Bridge was officially declared a Welcoming Australia welcoming city in 2022, having already been a refugee friendly city since 2003.
