The Indian Council of Australia, Queensland Inc marked Australia Day 2026 by hosting a formal Australian Citizenship Ceremony that welcomed 30 new citizens into the national community.
Held on 26 January as part of official Australia Day observances, the ceremony reflected ICAQ’s long-standing involvement in facilitating citizenship events, with a focus on civic participation and multicultural engagement across Queensland.
Proceedings were presided over by Councillor Emily Kim of Calamvale Ward. The event opened with a Welcome to Country delivered by Refiti Tovi, a descendant of the Turrbal Peoples, acknowledging Traditional Custodians and recognising the enduring cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Citizenship ceremonies mark the formal transition into full civic participation, recognising a commitment to Australia’s democratic system, rule of law, and shared values. The 30 conferees joined Australians across the country who mark the anniversary of their citizenship each Australia Day.
In her address, Councillor Kim reflected on the role new citizens play in shaping Australia’s social and economic life, noting that their skills, professional expertise, and cultural perspectives strengthen communities at both local and national levels. She encouraged reflection on Australia’s history, shared values, and the importance of active engagement within the community.
ICAQ President Ashish Katta described citizenship as carrying both meaning and responsibility.
“Australian citizenship is more than a formality — it is a solemn bond of loyalty, responsibility, and shared destiny. It does not require people to abandon their culture or heritage, but calls for an unshakeable commitment to Australia’s Constitution, democratic values, respect for First Nations peoples, and active contribution to the nation we now share,” he said.
Welcome addresses were also delivered by Ms Julie-Ann Campbell MP, who conveyed the Minister’s message, and Councillor Steve Griffiths of Moorooka Ward. Both speakers highlighted the importance of civic participation and the role of multicultural communities in public life.
ICAQ acknowledged the collective effort behind the ceremony, thanking volunteers and community contributors Ram Junnuri, Kuldeep Naidu Ganisetti, Prabhakar Bachu, Akash Deshpande, and Chirag Deshpande for their support in delivering the event.
As the organisation continues its work in community development and multicultural programs, attention is turning to upcoming initiatives, including the Indian Traditional New Year Celebrations 2026, aimed at fostering cultural exchange and civic connection across Queensland.
The ceremony reflected a contemporary understanding of Australian citizenship, where cultural heritage and civic responsibility sit side by side within a shared national commitment.
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