Our community welcomed 160 of Australia’s newest citizens at a Citizenship Ceremony on 11 June at The Art House, Wyong.

More than36 different countries were represented by the people taking the citizenship pledge, including Nepal, the Philippines, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, India and many more.

At the ceremony, we heard from guest speaker Victoria Lobregat. Victoria is a Filipina artist and Visual Arts teacher at Lakes Grammar who has recently received a Creative Arts grant from Council that will enable her to collect artworks and stories showcasing our Filipino community.

We also acknowledged Refugee Week, held from 15 to 21 June 2025, including World Refugee Day on 20 June, to promote awareness of the challenges refugees face and the contribution they make to our community. 

Since our nation’s very first citizenship ceremony in 1949, over 6 million people from countries across the globe have been granted Australian citizenship. 

Becoming an Australian Citizen is a significant milestone in people’s lives, and it was wonderful to witness the genuine enthusiasm and excitement as people pledged their commitment to Australia and to our shared values. 

Our next citizenship ceremony will take place in September, and I look forward to welcoming more people and celebrating the diversity they bring to our community. 

On behalf of Council and the Central Coast community, I’d like to congratulate our newest citizens on this major step in their life journey and wish them a bright future as part of our great nation. 

Mayor Lawrie McKinna