Brisbane’s Citizenship Backlog Crisis | Sydney News

Thousands of approved applicants in Brisbane are trapped in a citizenship ceremony backlog, some waiting over three months to officially become Australian citizens — a delay that’s forcing families into impossible choices, like paying steep visa fees to visit sick relatives overseas. With over 7,000 people approved but still waiting, Brisbane’s waitlist is the longest in the country, growing rapidly over just two years. Without their passports, these citizens-to-be can’t travel easily or affordably, despite having passed all tests and embraced Australia as their home. A petition is now demanding more ceremonies, while the federal government and Brisbane City Council point to scheduling limits — including a cancelled October event due to a federal parliament clash — and note that most ceremonies are locally managed, with neighboring councils like Logan handling their lists more efficiently. For those ready to pledge their loyalty, the final step remains frustratingly out of reach. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8c085c14a861af8c