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On 26 January 2010 almost 16 500 people from 144 countries became Australian citizens as Australia celebrated it's national day:
- More than 350 citizenship ceremonies were held across Australia.
- There was a mega-ceremony in Wanneroo, Western Australia where about 2600 people became Australian citizens which was the largest citizenship ceremony in Australian history.
- In Sydney Prime Minister Kevin Rudd conferred citizenship on 77 people from 23 countries.
- In New South Wales, 3500 people became citizens at more than 100 ceremonies across the state; Citizenship ceremonies were held at Byron Bay, Broken Hill, Albury and Tamworth and other places in the State.
- Across Victoria, more than 3000 people became Australian citizens on 26 January.
- Tasmania welcomed almost 300 new citizens at 15 ceremonies.
- About 950 people became citizens in South Australia at events such as the traditional ceremony held during the one–day international cricket match at Adelaide Oval
- 3500 people became citizens at around 60 ceremonies in Queensland.
- In the Northern Territory, about 120 people from 34 countries became citizens at ceremonies held in Darwin; Citizenship Ceremonies were also held at Alice Springs, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy.
The Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Senator Chris Evans, said Australia has been enriched by the cultures of people from more than 200 countries who have chosen to call Australia home.
'I am certain our new citizens will continue this tradition,' Senator Evans said.
'Becoming an Australian citizen is an exciting step that shows commitment and loyalty to this country and the desire to share a common future.
'Australian citizenship ceremonies provide the newest members of our nation with an opportunity to make a formal commitment to this country and to celebrate what it means to be an Australian citizen.
'At the same time, January 26 gives all Australians the chance to enjoy our nation's special day, celebrate being part of such a wonderful country and also offer our sincere welcome and congratulations to our newest citizens.'
