Citizenship can be difficult step

Stirling is the most populous City in the metropolitan area and every year, between 1500 and 2000 people receive Australian citizenship at ceremonies conducted by the City.

At its peak, the City had 34 ceremonies, in 2008, and while the City only has 19 scheduled for this year, it still expects to welcome over 1500 people.

The mayor understands, however, why some people may struggle with citizenship.

A British immigrant, Cr Boothman lived in Australia for 21 years before deciding to take the plunge, and said he could understand why many people, especially refugees, may struggle with the transition.

‘I was a pom, and I did mine in 1985’