Becoming a citizen officially happens in a moment, but feeling at home takes much longer.
At the Australia Day citizenship ceremony at Town Hall, we asked some of Australia’s newest citizens why they chose Melbourne, what the city means to them today, and whether they’ve plucked up the courage to give Vegemite a crack.
What does Melbourne mean to you now?
*Hint* It’s more than just where they live.
Ashwin Antony
“Melbourne is home. It’s where I feel a sense of belonging, community, and comfort in everyday life.”
Dr Neethu Madhukumar
“My home.”
Scarlett Tokunaga
“It is home, where my family and loved ones live. It is a city that keeps me professionally inspired and has also provided a sense of stability and community I could not experience before.”
Niels Leemput
“It is the place where my wife and I have built our life together, as we jumped into this adventure together six years ago.”
Rob Batchelor
“Melbourne means home to me. It has such a great international feeling with the cafes, the river, and of course the people from all around the world.”
Kawita Narkthubthee
“Melbourne feels like home now. It’s where my life is and where I feel settled.”
Teerapon 'Sunshine' Pearaponwiput
“Melbourne is a place where I can be myself and try new things. It makes me feel alive and reminds me that happiness can be simple.”
The moment the relationship became official
Getting your Australian citizenship is a huge deal, and for many it didn’t come easily.
Ashwin Antony
“It was a moment filled with mixed emotions. It had been a long journey. The process is rigorous and demanding, but that is precisely what makes Australian citizenship so meaningful and valued.”
Dr Neethu Madhukumar
“I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness and fulfilment. Receiving my citizenship was a deeply meaningful moment that affirmed the value of pursuing your dreams, hard work and determination.”
Niels Leemput
“We were looking forward to this for a long time, as it gives us stability and peace of mind, living here as full citizens. FINALLY, we got it!”
Teerapon 'Sunshine' Pearaponwiput
“I felt so happy and proud. It was a moment I had waited for a long time.”
Rob Batchelor
“I was very excited when I learned I would be an Australian citizen! I’m a huge fan of the people, the country, and the overall vibe here.”
Why Melbourne?
For some, it was infrastructure and opportunity. For others, it was a feeling and a vibe!
Ashwin Antony
“Living here means being close to world-class facilities and experiences. I make it a point to attend major sporting events such as the Australian Open and cricket matches at the MCG every year, venues I once watched on television as a child and deeply admired.”
Dr Neethu Madhukumar
“Melbourne is a vibrant, world-class city with an exceptional quality of life. The city is always alive, with something happening at every turn.”
Niels Leemput
“Being a multicultural and welcoming city with all the things to do so close by, it is perfect for us.”
Teerapon 'Sunshine' Pearaponwiput
“It’s relaxed, peaceful, and full of cool people. It’s a city of events, sports, music, great coffee, and beautiful green spaces.”
The Great Vegemite divide
At some point we all must try it.
Ashwin Antony
“Yes, my wife made me try it on toast. Nope, definitely not for me!”
Dr Neethu Madhukumar
“When I was at university, I was enthusiastically encouraged to give Vegemite a try. Unfortunately… it didn’t quite win me over.”
Scarlett Tokunaga
“It went great. My husband and I love to eat it with cheese in a toastie.”
Niels Leemput
“I personally love it! A few times a week I’ll have my Vegemite toast for brekkie.”
Rob Batchelor
“Mmm, yes, I’ve tried Vegemite. Once. That was enough for me.”
Kawita Narkthubthee
“I actually haven’t tried Vegemite yet. People keep telling me it tastes like concentrated chicken soup, which honestly scares me a little.”
Favourite Australian expressions
Kawita Narkthubthee
“‘No worries.’ It’s simple and sums up the Aussie attitude perfectly.”
Ashwin Antony
“I really love the way people greet each other with ‘G’day’ and ‘How ya goin’?’ That friendliness makes everyday interactions feel more welcoming and connected.”
Dr Neethu Madhukumar
“My favourite Aussie phrase is ‘Good on ya!’ It captures such a genuine sense of encouragement and positivity.”
Scarlett Tokunaga
“Let’s give it a fair go!”
Niels Leemput
“‘No worries, mate!’”
Teerapon 'Sunshine' Pearaponwiput
“‘Have a G’day.’ It makes people smile and feel happy.”
Find out more about citizenship ceremonies at Melbourne Town Hall. And go behind the scenes with master of ceremonies Eleanora Ganci to see what it takes to make these momentous events run smoothly.
