The number of Australian citizens swelled significantly today, with more than 2,000 people pledging alleigence to their adopted country.
But as thousands attended citizenship ceremonies, there was criticism of a decision to merge the Multicultural Affairs ministry in the new Abbott government.
"From our point of view, and given where we're placed and given our position in the Asia Pacific environment, not having something that actually champions diversity as a core value for us and a real asset for us is problematic," says Pino Migliorino, chair of the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia.
Mr Migliorino intends to lobby Tony Abbott over the decision
But for most, today was about celebrating citizenship.
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At a ceremony in Melbourne ceremony, 500 new citizens were welcomed, all embracing their new nation.
Six years ago, Punjabi immigrant Hardip Gahlay brought his family to Australia in search of opportunity.
"I am part of building the National Broadband Network for Australia, so hopefully I am putting my bit to finishing that project," he says.
His 10-year old son Bhupinder appreciates the change for a different reason
"Australia's a really nice and beautiful country - In India there's lots of dirt everywhere so this is a better country for me."
In 2009, mother and daughter Ghada and Ashmini arrived in Australia after fleeing war-torn Iraq.
"I have 2 brothers killed in 2006 - killed on same day," Ghada says.
At 83, Ashmini is one of the older new citizens with perhaps the simplest appreciation for her adopted country.
In Iraq, she was banned from wearing her beloved crucifix.
