Australia and its people
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Australia and its people
At the citizenship ceremony, you pledge your loyalty to Australia and its people.
Information in this section includes Australia’s people, states and territories, and traditions and symbols.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Australia’s first inhabitants are the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
These cultures are the oldest continuous cultures and traditions in the world.
Aboriginal peoples arrived in Australia between 65,000 and 40,000 years ago.
Indigenous cultures are central to Australia's national identity.
Early days of European settlement
European settlement began with the First Fleet arriving from Great Britain on 26th January 1788.
Early free settlers came from Great Britain and Ireland.
The gold rush began in 1851, attracting people from all over the world.
The nation of Australia
Australia is a diverse and prosperous society with connections to the world.
English is Australia’s national language, and its use is important for participation in society.
Australia values other languages, including over 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.
Australia’s states and territories
Australia is a federation of six states and two mainland territories.
Canberra is the capital city of Australia.
Each state and territory has its own capital city.
Traditions and symbols - Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country Protocols
A Welcome to Country is a cultural practice performed by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander custodian.
An Acknowledgement of Country can be delivered by anyone to show respect for Indigenous peoples.
Important days for Australians
Australia Day is celebrated on 26th January, marking the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788.
Anzac Day is commemorated on 25th April to honour all Australians who served and died in wars.
Australia’s Flags
The Australian National Flag is blue, white, and red.
The Aboriginal Flag is black, red, and yellow, symbolizing the Aboriginal peoples, the earth, and the sun.
The Torres Strait Islander Flag is green, blue, black, and white, symbolizing land, sea, people, and peace.
Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms identifies the authority and property of the Commonwealth of Australia.
Australia’s national flower
The golden wattle is Australia’s national flower, with bright green leaves and golden yellow flowers.
Australia’s national colours
Australia’s national colours are green and gold, the colours of the golden wattle.
Australia’s gemstone
The opal is Australia’s national gemstone.
Australia’s national anthem
‘Advance Australia Fair’ is Australia’s national anthem.
It is sung at citizenship ceremonies and major events.