Australia Day 2026 was made extra special for 176 Redlands Coast residents who officially became Australian citizens at a ceremony hosted by Redland City Council.
The citizenship ceremony, held on Monday, January 26, was presided over by Mayor Jos Mitchell, who said the occasion was an important opportunity to reflect on what it means to be an Australian.
“The ceremony was a time for us all to reflect on our shared values, our national history, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, and how each one of us can become more involved with our local community,” the Mayor said.
The new citizens represented 38 countries, including South Africa, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Italy, Zimbabwe and Bulgaria. They joined more than 18,000 people nationwide who were invited to become Australian citizens on Australia Day.
Mayor Mitchell said citizenship was a powerful common bond that helped build a unified, cohesive and inclusive nation.
“On Redlands Coast we are fortunate to live in a truly diverse community, with about one-quarter of local residents born overseas,” she said.
“About 60 per cent of our residents also have ancestors from countries other than Australia. Our city is made up of cultures from across the globe.”
She said Redland City Council hosted several citizenship ceremonies each year, welcoming people who had chosen to make Redlands Coast their home.
“On average, more than 850 people choose to become Australian citizens on Redlands Coast each year,” Mayor Mitchell said.
“Congratulations to our newest Australian citizens.”
More information about Redland City Australian citizenship ceremonies is available on Council’s website. Details about Australian citizenship, including eligibility criteria and the application process, can be found at citizenship.gov.au
