Speeches
Wednesday, 26 January 2022
Town of Walkerville Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony
It is my great pleasure to be here on Australia Day for this Citizenship Ceremony and the announcement of the Citizen of the Year Awards.
The fact that Her Worship the Mayor of the Town of Walkerville and her councillors are joined this morning by state and federal members of Parliament of both major parties underscores the importance our leaders at our levels of government attach to citizenship.
Having attended my husband Rod’s citizenship ceremony in Canberra last year, I think I can share the sense of excitement of the twelve who will become Australian citizens this morning, and your families, and I offer my congratulations to each of you.
You have come from all over the world:
India, Pakistan, Vietnam, China, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Korea and Singapore.
In my former life as a diplomat, I had the opportunity visit all but one of your countries.
While I have been privileged to experience the rich history and culture of other nations, travelling the world also made me realise how fortunate I am to be a citizen of Australia.
In this country we enjoy many privileges: a thriving and vibrant democracy, the rule of law, freedom of speech, high-quality health and education systems, and an opportunity to lead a safe, rich and fulfilling life.
These privileges also come with responsibilities including to exercise our right to vote, to be law‑abiding members of the community and, wherever possible, to give back to that community in our own way, whether that be in running for public office or simply as a member of the local sports club.
I have no doubt all our candidates for citizenship will make meaningful contributions to our community, to their community, and I wish you all well in their new life as Australian citizens.
I also take this opportunity to congratulate all winners of the Australia Day awards for the Town of Walkerville in 2022.
You are all marvellous examples of the community spirit that is so strong here in our State.
Happy Australia Day to you all!
Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC
Governor of South Australia