Refugee footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi has become an Australian citizen after a ceremony in Melbourne.
The Bahrain-born player took the oath at Melbourne's Federation Square on Tuesday.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne and refugee footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi who received his Australian citizenship during a ceremony in Melbourne.
"I'm an Aussie now," Mr Al-Araibi told reporters.
"I feel safe."
Refugee footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi receives his Australian citizenship at a ceremony in Federation Square, Melbourne.
AAP/David Crosling
Mr Al-Araibi posted on Twitter, saying the citizenship made him "feel secure."
Former Socceroo captain and campaigner Craig Foster attended the ceremony, as did Foreign Minister Marise Payne.
Mr Al-Araibi also posted part of Senator Payne's speech from the ceremony to his Twitter account.
Former Socceroo Craig Foster, Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne and refugee footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi at his citizenship ceremony.
AAP/David Crosling
Foster, who helped lead the campaign to free Mr Al-Araibi posted to Twitter following the ceremony.
Members from Mr Al-Araibi's football team Pascoe Vale were also present at the ceremony.
