Australians preparing to take their citizenship pledge this month will have new resources to draw on, with the national anthem and the pledge now available in more than 60 languages through SBS.
The initiative will be formally launched on 17 September at a citizenship ceremony at Government House in Canberra, presided over by Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC. The day will recognise new citizens and acknowledge the contribution of migrant and refugee communities across the country.
Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the project would help deepen understanding of national traditions. “Our national anthem holds a distinctive place in Australia’s shared story. Making it available in many of the languages spoken across our nation will help all Australians understand the beauty and symbolism behind the words we hear at our national commemorations, events, school assemblies and more. These are moments that make me proud to be Australian – I commend SBS for this initiative that will share that feeling of pride and shared understanding.”
SBS Acting Managing Director Jane Palfreyman said the multilingual approach reflects the way Australia has grown. “Multiculturalism is one of Australia’s greatest strengths and this initiative demonstrates that we can celebrate our differences while affirming the values and identity we share. With the anthem and pledge now available in more than 60 languages, SBS is helping ensure every Australian can engage with these national symbols in ways that reflect and respect our shared diversity.”
David Hua, SBS Director of Language and Audio Content, said the project builds on the broadcaster’s long-standing work in supporting social cohesion. “For 50 years, SBS’s purpose has been to reflect Australia and foster a more cohesive society. The national anthem is something we all hear often, and this project makes it more accessible, building belonging and pride by deepening understanding of its meaning. It is also a reminder that both the anthem and the citizenship pledge can be shared by all who make their home in Australia, no matter where their journey began.”
The resources cover many of the languages most commonly spoken by new migrants and refugee groups, ensuring wide accessibility. They are freely available online for schools, community organisations, ceremonies and commemorative events nationwide.
The collection includes videos featuring singer Dami Im performing the anthem with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, complete with subtitled lyrics in both English and the chosen language, alongside audio and text versions of the anthem and pledge in over 60 languages.
SBS has also expanded its Learn English and Australia Explained services, with resources such as the “Australian Citizenship” video and podcast series in 10 languages, and an explainer article on preparing for the citizenship test in more than 30 languages.
This latest effort follows earlier SBS projects translating the Acknowledgement of Country, Ode of Remembrance and Uluru Statement from the Heart, all designed to invite diverse communities to share in national traditions.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
