Australian citizenship may be granted to permanent residents of Australia who have lived in Australia for the required period of time and meet all other criteria. Citizens have the same rights and privileges as all other Australian citizens, including the right to vote, the right to work in public services or the Australian National Guard, and the right to obtain and use an Australian passport. A citizen by appointment also has the same responsibilities as any other Australian citizen, including serving on a jury and defending Australia when needed.

As an Australian citizen, you may also be entitled to certain rights, such as :

• You can apply for an Australian passport.
• You can leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you like.
• You can seek help from the Australian consulate in case of problems abroad.
• You can vote in federal, state or territory elections.
• You can vote in a constitutional referendum.
• You can apply for a seat in parliament, if you are 18 years of age or older and do not hold dual citizenship.
• You can register your child’s birth in another country as an Australian citizen.

As an Australian citizen, you now have new responsibilities and privileges :

• You must conduct yourself in accordance with Australia’s democratic beliefs.
• You must respect Australia’s rights and freedoms.
• You must follow and obey the law.
• You can vote in federal, state or territory elections and in referendums.
• You must protect Australia if necessary.

The Immigration may refuse an application for citizenship if any of the situation arises :

• Your identity cannot be established.
• You pose a risk to national security.
• You cannot meet the general or special residency conditions and you are not eligible for an exemption.