Dual citizenship

This morning, my calendar popped up with an anniversary reminder. It's 32 years since I became a dual citizen. Living in Australia and becoming an Australian citizen was never the grand plan for my life. Instead, thanks to a fortuitous set of circumstances, I came to live here.

Back then, becoming an Australian citizen was a relatively simple exercise, at least for New Zealanders. I completed an application, paid a relatively modest fee and attended a brief screening interview. A few months later, I received a letter advising that my application was approved. I duly attended a citizenship ceremony in the Hornsby Council Chambers and officially became an Australian on 29 March 1993.

These days, the process takes a year or more, costs a small fortune, and involves a mountain of paperwork, police checks, medical examinations, and other bureaucratic hurdles. I still vividly recall my screening interview at an office in Chatswood. 

I remember sitting in a waiting room filled with people. Most of the applicants that day were of Asian descent. I was one of the only Caucasians in the room. The interviewer emerged from an interview room and called my name, noting I was a New Zealand citizen. She breathed a sigh of relief and predicted a quick meeting. Apparently, I'd get her back on schedule. I was asked about my English proficiency, criminal record, and a few other details I can't recall. My interview then concluded.

A few months later, my friend Michele attended my citizenship ceremony. It seemed apt that she be there, given her pivotal role in helping me settle in Australia. Afterwards, we enjoyed a remarkably unmemorable afternoon tea with local councillors before heading out for a celebration dinner.

My motivation for becoming a dual citizen was relatively straightforward. After living in Australia for 2.5 years, I could see myself settling into a comfortable life. I couldn't imagine returning permanently to New Zealand any time soon. Hence, I didn't want a future Government or legislative change to hinder my ability to live or retire unrestrained in Australia. Once I discovered that I could hold dual citizenship and thus maintain my New Zealand identity, becoming an Australian was an easy decision.

32 years later, I have no regrets. My Australian life has been blessed (just read this blog!). Australia has been good to me.