We’ve covered the perks of getting an Australian permanent residency (see here). You can consider applying for Australian Citizenship if you want to secure an Australian passport and also take advantage of other benefits available to Australian citizens.

Below are some of the benefits of becoming an Australian Citizen.

The Right to Vote

In Australia, no vote ever goes to waste (see here how their elections work), as they utilize the preferential system of voting. As an Australian citizen, you have the right to vote in federal, state or territory, and municipal elections, as well as in referendums. Take note though that voting here is both a right and a duty.

Eligibility to Seek Election

Australia has a very stable government (What type exactly? Check here). If you are aspiring to be a member of the Federal Parliament, you cannot hold a dual citizenship, unless you have made all efforts to have your other citizenship revoked.

Opportunity to Work In The Defence Force And The Federal Government

Being part of the Australian Defence Force is ripe with benefits. First, you will have the honour of preserving peace in the country and protecting it. Second, you’ll have access to pensions, benefits, free medical and dental care, excellent training facilities, and subsidized accommodation, among others. Working for the government also has many perks, like good compensation, superannuation, and employment pension.

Consular Assistance While Abroad

Mishaps while overseas are a prime headache, but being an Australian citizen, the embassies will take care of that. In case of accidents, injuries, natural disasters, passport loss, and other unwanted instances, you may seek aid from Australian embassies and consulates located worldwide.

Children Born Overseas Are Australian Citizens

As a permanent resident visa holder, your children will become Australian citizens automatically given they were born in the country. If you are an Australian citizen, children born anywhere in the world can be registered as Australian citizens by descent. They are entitled to rights, privileges, and benefits enjoyed by other Australian citizens.

Re-Enter Australia Freely and Avoid Time Limitations

Australian citizenship does not have an expiry date. As a citizen you can apply for an Australian passport and have total freedom to travel in and out of Australia (including being overseas, without any time limitations or restrictions to re-enter).

Deferral of University Expenses

Being a permanent visa holder, you are already entitled to education subsidies to aid you in tertiary education expenses. But being a citizen gives you (and your children) more options in education cost deferrals such as HECS programs, scholarships, awards and the Student Income Support from the Australian government.

Entitlement to Adopt

If you and your spouse are Australian citizens, you are eligible to adopt a child here. Do note that requirements may vary in every state.

Living and Working in New Zealand

You will have full travel and work rights in New Zealand (as Australia and New Zealand have a Trans-Tasman agreement).

Entitlement to Represent Australia

The Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and Goodwill games are just few of the sporting events Australia always send delegates to. If you are an Australian citizen, you are eligible to participate and represent the country in these events, if you want to embark on a sporting career.