Shoalhaven mayor Amanda Findley has clapped back at the federal government’s plan to force councils to hold a citizenship ceremony on January 26, claiming it is a move by the Commonwealth to shift costs onto local government.
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Under changes to the Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code to be introduced in the first half of 2019, councils must hold a citizenship ceremony on Australia Day and September 17 - Australian Citizenship Day.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison also said a strict dress code for the ceremonies would be introduced, which ruled out the wearing of board shorts and thongs.
With Australia Day less than two weeks away, debate about the changes has flared. Cr Findley said she disagreed with “forcing” the community to celebrate or a dress a certain way.
“The Prime Minister may think he is onto a good thing being so nationalistic, but there is no consideration for the actual arrangements councils have in place or their citizens’ expectations,” she said.
“The Department of Immigration do not fund any of the citizenship ceremonies that are held in the Shoalhaven throughout the year. Effectively it is the Commonwealth cost shifting to local government.”
In the Shoalhaven, five to six citizenship ceremonies run every year, which Cr Findley said ensured a cost effective and friendly occasion.
“Every ceremony we get complimented for the personal approach we take in caring for our new citizens who are often overwhelmed with emotion on this occasion,” she said.
On January 24, council will hold its Australia Day citizenship ceremony in conjunction with the Shoalhaven Medals ceremony, a combination that has occurred for several years. Cr Findley said this was a “great model” as there was no competition with other Australia Day activities.
“More people get to witness our new citizens and in return more people get to understand how important and valued our community is via the medals. This year will be huge as we also incorporate the Sporting Hall of Fame,” she said.
“If this was forced to occur on the public holiday, council would have to rethink the budget for the event and its style as everything from staff to catering costs more on that day and it competes with people enjoying time with family and friends and maximising the public holiday.”
Despite the controversy, Cr Findley said Shoalhaven Council would continue it’s personal approach in welcoming new citizens.