James Foster (USA)

Australians all let us rejoice...

James and Caleb Foster at Victoria’s largest Australian citizenship ceremony. Photo not to be used or reproduced without the permission of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

American-born James Foster was so delighted his son was to sing the national anthem at Victoria’s largest Australian citizenship ceremony that it prompted him to make an important life decision.

A resident of Australia for 12 years – and feeling very much at home here with his Australian wife and children – James was yet to take steps to formalise that connection and apply for Australian citizenship.

'My wife and I thought it would be an ideal time for me to become an Australian citizen, as I have lived in this country for 12 years,' James said.

'During that time, I have become as much an Aussie bloke as anyone I know.

'I barbecue, eat too many Tim Tams and am a strong Hawthorn Hawks supporter.'

His elder son, Caleb, was to perform with the Australian Children's Choir at the citizenship ceremony to be held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

'We hoped the connection between father, son and my Australian citizenship would become a family experience that could be passed down for generations,' James said.

After making his decision James sprang into action and applied for Australian citizenship.

His application was approved in time for him to be part of the ceremony for 2583 new Australian citizens – Victoria's largest citizenship ceremony ever.

While James' elder son was centre stage singing with the choir, his wife and their younger son were by his side to cheer father and son on and share in this momentous day for the Foster family.