Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)— On Friday 6 October, I was honoured to witness and celebrate as Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser swore in new Australian citizens at Rathmines. It was a beautiful day at Rathmines, with a gorgeous view of the Lake.

I couldn't imagine a more fitting start to their citizenship. It is always an honour to take part in a citizenship ceremony. In my time as Lake Macquarie Mayor, it was one of my favourite parts of the job—and now that I represent my community here in the Parliament, I like to go along as often as I am able.

I never get tired of welcoming new members to our fantastic Australian family and meet new Charlestown electorate constituents. Those taking part in the ceremony came from across the world, and it is so wonderful to see the culture they bring with them added to our beautiful multicultural mix.

My congratulations to all the new citizens: welcome to the Charlestown electorate, the city of Lake Macquarie, the state of New South Wales and the Commonwealth of Australia!

A Community Recognition Notice is an opportunity for an MP to submit a short statement praising the work of an individual or group in the local community. If you have any ideas about people I can recognise with a Community Recognition Notice, please email and let me know!