Citizenship in our country is desired by millions of people from around the world, but only a select few each year are granted the honour to be called an Australian.

Determining who should be given the privilege is hard.

It is difficult to know someone’s motives and character for certain, but it is incumbent on any responsible Australian government to take all reasonable steps to ensure those applicants granted Australian citizenship are worthy.

The Australian government is putting Australian values at the heart of the citizenship processes and requirements.

Membership in the Australian family should be granted to those who support our values, respect our laws and want to work hard by integrating and contributing to an even better Australia.

In the future, citizenship applicants will have to: prove they are competent in reading, writing, and comprehending English; be a permanent resident for at least four years before applying; show the steps they have taken to integrate into and contribute to the Australian community.

Examples could include evidence of employment, membership of community organisations, and school enrolment for children.

Any conduct inconsistent with Australian values, e.g. criminal activity, including violence against women and children, will be considered as part of this process. 

Citizenship brings with it great privileges and responsibilities and so deserves respect and commitment from those who seek it, as well as those who are granted it.

The Australian government can control who is granted Australian citizenship, but ultimately, the worth and future of Australian citizenship is us – those who are already privileged to call ourselves Australians. It is vital we all recommit to promote, defend, and practise Australian values in our lives each day.