More than 8000 people from almost 130 nations will become Australians today.

As we mark Australian Citizenship Day, 150 citizenship ceremonies are taking place across the country.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman will welcome 50 new citizens from 25 countries at a ceremony at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.

“Citizenship Day is a time to recognise the value and significance of Australian citizenship and celebrate the contribution of all citizens to our great nation,” Mr Coleman said.

“These migrants are making a commitment to our nation and accepting the immense privilege of Australian Citizenship.

“It means they have a stake in our future as a prosperous and diverse nation, and that they embrace the fundamental values that underpin our society.”

“The pillars of our nation – freedom, democracy, and the rule of law – have been embraced by generations of migrants to Australia.

Since 1949, we have welcomed more than five million new citizens, including almost 130,000 last year.

The Governor-General His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) will today preside over a ceremony in the remote town of Newman in WA.

For more information about Australian Citizenship Day visit www.citizenship.gov.au.