Taking the Australian citizenship oath: your guide to the pledge
The citizenship oath — formally called the pledge of commitment — is the final legal step in becoming an Australian citizen. You don't officially become a citizen when your application is approved; you become a citizen when you make this pledge at a citizenship ceremony.
Official pledge information: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/citizenship/ceremony
What the pledge says
There are two versions of the pledge. You choose which one when you submit your citizenship application.
With reference to God: From this time forward, under God, I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I will uphold and obey.
Without reference to God: From this time forward, I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I will uphold and obey.
The only difference is the phrase "under God." Both versions carry the same legal weight.
Can I choose which version I make?
Yes. You indicate your preference when you submit your application. There is no right or wrong choice — it is entirely personal. Neither version is more or less official than the other, and your preference does not affect the outcome of your application or your status as a citizen.
If you choose the version that includes "under God," you may also bring a holy book of your choosing to the ceremony if you wish.
What happens at the ceremony
Citizenship ceremonies are held by local councils and can take place in council chambers, public halls, or other community venues. The basic structure of the ceremony is:
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Arrival and check-in — You arrive at the venue and confirm your attendance with ceremony staff. You may receive a pledge card with the words you'll say.
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Formal proceedings — The ceremony opens with a welcome, an acknowledgement of country, and usually a few short speeches from local officials.
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The pledge — Everyone making the pledge stands together and recites it aloud, usually following a presiding officer. You say it at the same time.
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Receiving your certificate — Once the pledge is made, you receive your Australian citizenship certificate. This is the document that proves your citizenship.
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Closing — Most ceremonies end with the national anthem, congratulations, and a chance for photos.
For a full guide to the ceremony, see important things about the Australian citizenship ceremony.
Do children need to say the pledge?
Children under 16 who were included in a parent's approved conferral application do not make the pledge separately. They become citizens through the parent's ceremony — the parent's pledge covers them.
Children aged 16 and 17 who applied independently must attend their own ceremony and make the pledge.
What happens if you miss the ceremony?
If you cannot attend your scheduled ceremony, contact the organising council as soon as possible. You may be rescheduled to a future ceremony.
Not attending without notice means your citizenship is not finalised. The pledge is the legal act that completes the process — there is no way around attending a ceremony.
Why the pledge matters
Until you make the pledge, your citizenship isn't final — no matter what your application status is. The ceremony and the pledge together are what makes it legal. It's a moment worth taking seriously, and most people find it genuinely meaningful.
After the ceremony, your next steps include applying for an Australian passport and enrolling to vote.
Related guides
- Important things about the Australian citizenship ceremony
- How to get an Australian citizenship certificate
- Australian citizenship for children
- Step-by-step Australian citizenship application process
Always verify pledge wording and ceremony arrangements with the Department of Home Affairs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose which version I make?
Yes. You indicate your preference when you submit your application. There is no right or wrong choice — it is entirely personal. Neither version is more or less official than the other, and your preference does not affect the outcome of your application or your status as a citizen.
Do children need to say the pledge?
Children under 16 who were included in a parent's approved conferral application do not make the pledge separately. They become citizens through the parent's ceremony — the parent's pledge covers them. Children aged 16 and 17 who applied independently must attend their own ceremony and make the pledge.
What happens if you miss the ceremony?
If you cannot attend your scheduled ceremony, contact the organising council as soon as possible. You may be rescheduled to a future ceremony. Not attending without notice means your citizenship is not finalised. The pledge is the legal act that completes the process — there is no way around attending a ceremony.