Australians across the nation will look to the past and the future as part of Constitution Day celebrations tomorrow, a Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) spokesperson said today.

“Constitution Day on July 9 is the occasion that marks Australia’s creation as a nation, the day in 1900 when Queen Victoria gave royal assent to the Constitution,” the spokesman said.

“As we recognise this important date, Constitution Day is also a fitting occasion to welcome new Australian citizens who will contribute to Australia’s future.

“In the coming days, about 500 new Australians from almost 70 countries will be welcomed at citizenship ceremonies across the nation. These special Constitution Day ceremonies will give our nation’s newest citizens an opportunity to acknowledge that they understand and respect what it means to become Australians.”

Citizenship ceremonies will be staged in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane, while Canberra will tomorrow welcome more than 60 new Australians from 25 countries at the National Museum of Australia.

Among the new citizens are UK nationals Camilla and David Shaw, who have regularly visited Australia since 1987 and have lived here permanently since 2003.

The couple is actively involved in the Canberra community, volunteering at the Carillon, Blundell’s Cottage, Old Parliament House rose gardens, the National Capital Authority and the National Zoo and Aquarium.

“I love living in Australia. I have always felt a part of the country. It is a privilege and an honour to become an Australian citizen. I am Scottish by birth and Australian by choice,” Mrs Shaw said.

Mr and Mrs Shaw will become Australians at 10.30am tomorrow in Canberra at the National Museum of Australia. The couple and other new citizens will be available for interview and photographs following the ceremony.

Media Enquiries: National Communications Branch (02) 6264 2244