The People
Who is an Australian?
Australians come from all over the world. Some of our ancestors go back to the Aboriginal Dreamtime. Others were transported on the First Fleet, came to work on the gold fields or arrived as camel drivers in the outback more than one hundred years ago. For many of us, our parents or grandparent arrived after the Second World War. About one in four of us were born overseas. But all Australians, regardless of their background, share a commitment to Australia and its people.
The First Australians
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have inhabited Australia for at least 40 000 to 60 000 years. They have developed diverse cultures, grounded in a land-based spirituality, and adapted to Australian environments. Today Indigenous people contribute greatly to our nation across many fields, including the arts, media, sport, politics, academia, business and land management.
How is Australia made up?
Australia is a culturally diverse nation. The last Census in 2001 showed that about 2.4% of the population were Indigenous Australians and 23% of us were born overseas. Another 20% who were born in Australia have at least one parent born overseas. People from the United Kingdom are still the largest group of Australians born overseas, followed by New Zealanders.
Top ten countries of birth of Australians born overseas:
The Anzacs
The Anzacs were troops of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who landed at Gallipoli on the 25th April 1915, during World War One. They fought a campaign lasting about eight months. Although fighting under British command, the men started the Anzac legend with their mateship and bravery. Some say that this was when Australia's national identity was born.
Migration
Migration involves people moving from one country to another. This may be voluntary, as migrants, or involuntary as displaced people or refugees. Some people decide to migrate to seek a better life for their children, better job opportunities or to be reunited with families who have migrated in earlier years. Australia is one of a handful of countries which operates a planned annual migration program. The program welcomes people of all backgrounds and represents a balance between Australia's national interest and international responsibilities.
Citizenship
Having Australian citizenship means you are a full member of the Australian community. It gives you certain privileges. You can apply for a passport, or receive help from the Australian consular officials while overseas. If you are old enough you can vote in elections, stand for Parliament, work in the Public Service and serve in the armed forces.
Your responsibilities as an Australian Citizen
As an Australian Citizen you are expected to:
- Accept the basic principles of Australian society:
- Parliamentary democracy
- Freedom of speech and religion
- Equality of opportunity
- Obey the laws
- Serve on a jury if called
- Defend Australia if required
People born in Australia who have an Australian citizen parent or permanent resident parent are Australian citizens by birth. People born overseas to an Australian citizen parent can be registered as a citizen by descent if under 25 years of age.
People who migrate to Australia can apply for citizenship by grant.
Generally, people who migrate to Australia are eligible for Australian citizenship when they have lived in Australia as a permanent resident for 2 or more years. Other requirements include being of good character, understanding the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.
Contact Us for more information or complete the free assessment for a detailed report on your options for migration to Australia.
