Individuals who have made outstanding community contributions joined dozens of new Australian citizens at the City of Swan’s Australia Day Citizenship and Community Citizen of the Year ceremony.
With 85 new citizens from over 20 countries pledging their commitment and respect for Australia, the event included well-deserved praise for those who have inspired others to create a better community.
Nominations were received across four categories: Community Citizen of the Year, Senior Community Citizen of the Year, Young Community Citizen of the Year and Active Citizenship Award.
Steven Bartoli, Community Citizen of the Year, was recognised for his outstanding 40-year contribution to the Swan Athletic Sporting Club where his leadership as President has strengthened youth development, inclusivity and community engagement across multiple sports. Through hands-on service, successful advocacy for vital infrastructure funding and a deep commitment to community participation, he has helped ensure the club’s status as a thriving hub for sport and connection within the Swan Valley.
Graham Cox, Senior Community Citizen of the Year, was recognised for his outstanding leadership with Swan City Youth Service Inc, where he develops and delivers the Kadadjing Circle program, empowering young men – particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to overcome adversity, build confidence and make positive life choices.
Georgina Rogers, Young Community Citizen of the Year, was nominated for her exceptional commitment to the Ellenbrook Falcons and Harlies Falcons Hockey Clubs, where she has taken on the extensive role of women’s coordinator, managing four teams and supporting players of all ages. Through her leadership in organising training, games, uniforms, rosters, and community engagement, Georgina has significantly enhanced participation, cohesion, and community spirit within the club.
The Active Citizenship Award was presented to the Ballajura Youth Committee, a community youth leadership group making a major impact in youth engagement, arts and culture, and public service. The Committee actively participates in consultations, co-designs youth spaces, and creates resources on mental health, personal safety, financial literacy, and legal rights.
Among the excitement and celebration, the significance of Australia Day for the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community was formally acknowledged by Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor.
“Let us acknowledge past wrongs and injustices while we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s survival, resilience and enduring culture,” she said.
Mayor Richardson described the significance of citizenship to those who choose to settle in Australia.
“Your journey has led you here and we are grateful and honoured that you have made the City of Swan your home,” she said.
With 85 new citizens from over 20 countries pledging their commitment and respect for Australia, the event included well-deserved praise for those who have inspired others to create a better community.
Nominations were received across four categories: Community Citizen of the Year, Senior Community Citizen of the Year, Young Community Citizen of the Year and Active Citizenship Award.
Steven Bartoli, Community Citizen of the Year, was recognised for his outstanding 40-year contribution to the Swan Athletic Sporting Club where his leadership as President has strengthened youth development, inclusivity and community engagement across multiple sports. Through hands-on service, successful advocacy for vital infrastructure funding and a deep commitment to community participation, he has helped ensure the club’s status as a thriving hub for sport and connection within the Swan Valley.
Graham Cox, Senior Community Citizen of the Year, was recognised for his outstanding leadership with Swan City Youth Service Inc, where he develops and delivers the Kadadjing Circle program, empowering young men – particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to overcome adversity, build confidence and make positive life choices.
Georgina Rogers, Young Community Citizen of the Year, was nominated for her exceptional commitment to the Ellenbrook Falcons and Harlies Falcons Hockey Clubs, where she has taken on the extensive role of women’s coordinator, managing four teams and supporting players of all ages. Through her leadership in organising training, games, uniforms, rosters, and community engagement, Georgina has significantly enhanced participation, cohesion, and community spirit within the club.
The Active Citizenship Award was presented to the Ballajura Youth Committee, a community youth leadership group making a major impact in youth engagement, arts and culture, and public service. The Committee actively participates in consultations, co-designs youth spaces, and creates resources on mental health, personal safety, financial literacy, and legal rights.
Among the excitement and celebration, the significance of Australia Day for the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community was formally acknowledged by Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor.
“Let us acknowledge past wrongs and injustices while we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s survival, resilience and enduring culture,” she said.
Mayor Richardson described the significance of citizenship to those who choose to settle in Australia.
“Your journey has led you here and we are grateful and honoured that you have made the City of Swan your home,” she said.
Welcome to the City of Swan's 2026 Australia Day citizenship ceremony
Community Citizens of the Year with Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor
Taking the citizenship pledge
Welcoming new citizens from 20 countries