The Federal Member of Aston and Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, Chris Pearce, has welcomed the Howard Government's announcement of a Citizenship Test which encourages migrants to develop a greater understanding and respect for the Australian way of life.
“I strongly endorse the Government's leadership in encouraging all prospective citizens and long term visitors to generate a deeper understanding of what it means to be Australian,” Mr Pearce said.
“The participatory nature of the Aston community I represent is one of its greatest strengths. Those who are relatively new to Australia may want to appreciate and be involved in our vibrant community. Learning our official language and knowing a little of our history will be of tremendous assistance to our new neighbours in the longer term.
“My understanding is that the current introductory course that prospective new citizens are provided will be the basis for any new test to be taken, and the test can be taken some time after their arrival,” Mr Pearce said.
Once the test is successfully completed, prospective applicants for citizenship will also be asked to sign a statement of commitment to Australia.
“Respect for freedom and the dignity of the individual are two fundamental values of our community. It is right and proper that those intending to live with us understand the type of society that they could be residing in,” Mr Pearce said.
“I am deeply concerned that the minor parties of the Left have chosen to feign outrage over requiring potential Australians to acknowledge mainstream values and standards.
“However, I find that sound public policy is often promoted by the theatrics of the special interests it provokes.
“I am amused to see that those who generally oppose sound policy on the grounds of their fringe ideologies have again stumbled on to the wrong side of the debate.
“This policy is a positive development. I am convinced this program will help those immigrants living in Australia to better adapt and interact within our community. This policy will help advance Australia, and I encourage the detractors to get on board with the vast majority of Australians I have spoken to and support this worthy Government initiative,” Mr Pearce said.
14 December 2006 Melbourne Contact: Conor O'Brien 03 9887 3890