FOR the first time, 45 Queanbeyan and Palerang residents have become new Australian citizens through virtual ceremonies held online today (September 9).

Five of the modified ceremonies took place welcoming the conferees as Australians due to the ongoing stay-at-home orders.

One of the new citizens, Ali Embran, said that with so much uncertainty online ceremonies seemed like the smart thing to do.

Originally from Afghanistan, Ali also lived in Italy for some time before coming to Australia.

“In Australia I feel like I’m home, and that’s something I have been missing for many years,” said Ali.

“I notice the respect different people from different countries have for each other here.

“For me this is a country of opportunities and fairness.”

Another conferee, Joanne Dam, moved to Australia from the Netherlands and works as a teacher here.

“Because [my partner and I] were Dutch we were voting in the Netherlands but now becoming an Australian means that we can actually participate in those things here, which makes a lot more sense,” said Joanne.

“I would have loved doing a face-to-face [ceremony] but with the whole covid situation we’re all in this together.

“I’m happy that I still have the opportunity to become a citizen instead of having to wait another six months.”

Mayor of Queanbeyan Palerang Regional Council (QPRC) Tim Overall said it’s an honour to welcome the new Australians to the community.

“Citizenship ceremonies are a very special occasion in any person’s life,” said Mr Overall.

”We are proud to be involved in such an important occasion and glad that we are able to continue to provide this opportunity for today’s new Australians.”