Record numbers as Lismore welcomes its newest citizens

A RECORD 80 new residents from 25 countries were welcomed as Australian citizens at Lismore’s Citizenship Day ceremony.

The event was held at the recently repaired Municipal Building and brought together people from across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, including Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Sri Lanka and South Africa.

Lismore mayor Steve Krieg said the ceremony was one of the most rewarding parts of his role.

“One of the best parts of my job is to warmly welcome new Australian citizens who are now part of the common bond that unites all Australians and respects diversity,” Krieg said.

“Congratulations and welcome to our new citizens. Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, and since 1949 we have welcomed more than five million new citizens to our shores.”

The latest national statistics show the top five countries of origin for new citizens are India, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Pakistan and Iraq.

Lismore City Council hosts the ceremonies on behalf of the Department of Home Affairs, with regular events throughout the year.

More than 100 people have already been welcomed as citizens in Lismore in 2025, with Citizenship Day providing an opportunity to highlight cultural awareness, social unity and belonging.

A Department of Home Affairs spokesperson said citizenship was about more than just paperwork.

“Australian citizenship is more than just a legal status,” the spokesperson said. “It is our common bond that represents our shared democratic beliefs and gives us a sense of belonging and pride in our achievements as a nation.”