Australia Day

Cloak · Guru

Australia Day

oldbobsbus · Guru

Cloak wrote:

http://www.australiaday.org.au/

Here's a link to the official Webpage of this wonderful day.....
Me, I love it here and actively defend it from stupidity every day...

Cheers.

There ya go it is now clickable and will open in a new page... smile

Ohhh and I'm with you.. biggrin

Vic41 · Guru

Great link, thanks Cloak.

A great opportunity for those that live here and intend to stay here to become Australian Citizens too.

Many are qualified to become Australian Citizens but never do, I think if the country is good enough to live in and you are happy to live here and enjoy the benefits of living in OZ, then you owe it to yourself and the country to become a Citizen.

Bunkerbob · Senior Member

Saw a great bumper sticker the other month. AWOL FIFO - Australian Way Of Life ------ Fit In or F_____ Off.

LMFAO Very appropriate with the Ratbags that are currently immigrating here.

Vic41 · Guru

There are a lot here who are not ratbags BB, who have just not made the effort but should do IMHO, it is not asking much to support a country they have taken advantage of some for many years. Whether they pay or have paid taxes or not during their working life here is not relevant either, good enough to be here good enough to become a citizen.

Cloak · Guru

I believe we all have a right / duty to have an opinion on Australia Day no matter what it is.

I'm going to put a flag on my car once again and see if it doesn't get vandalised again.

Vic41 · Guru

Here are the costs of applying for Citizenship for anyone who is interested.

Concessions are also allowed for some, see the notes below the prices etc.

http://www.citizenship.gov.au/applying/fees_forms_appeals/

Cloak · Guru

Disappointing that something as important as citizenship we put an administration charge against. Makes us look cheap.

I remember when the world was run by engineers, humanists and scientists but by about the late 70's the accountant started
to get a say, now everything has a cost assessment against it which I find somehow pathetic.

Cheers

Victor Mildrew

cultana · Senior Member

Cloak wrote:
Disappointing that something as important as citizenship we put an administration charge against. Makes us look cheap.

Easy to fix the cheap part. Up the charge.

cultana · Senior Member

Cloak wrote:
I believe we all have a right / duty to have an opinion on Australia Day no matter what it is.

I'm going to put a flag on my car once again and see if it doesn't get vandalised again.

I doubt people wold disagree.

But the car and flag thing, well! Especially after a bunch of social misfits did a survey in 2012 and came out saying some odd things re such an action.

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/racism-links-to-aussie-car-flags/story-e6frg13u-1226251686129

Herb · Veteran Member

maybe us RATBAGS may feel privileged to be here but don't want to overstep our welcome without first contributing. maybe we think it is an honor to be a citizen, and honor that should first be earned. Where I come form we have people that become citizens just so they can enter other countries that their own country couldn't access easily....... I am a proud kiwi, yes I can vote here and did. This is where I live as does most of my family and only grandchild. Like most kiwis take the mickey out of Australians as they do me, nothing racial or derogatory, just the normal stuff. I talked to a Thai restaurant owner the other day (camped next to him and his family for a week) he has been here 40 years, came as a child, runs successful business, aussie citizen, kids born here but he says he still gets told to go back home. He says always makes him laugh as he has been here longer than most of them. I had to wonder tho, how welcome does this make him feel? One day we may become citizen as did my mother and son who both married Aussies, maybe one day it will become a mute point (two countries join, NZ just another state) who knows. In the mean time I will keep traveling buying my vehicles, caravans, food clothes, petrol and everything else from my NZ money.

On Australia day i will look at this country and admire the self pride, the luck of the people to be born here in a country of wealth and health. As we travel we have met a lot very nice people and seen some beautiful country. You have good reason to celebrate this amazing country.

D and D · Guru

Vic41 wrote:
Great link, thanks Cloak.
A great opportunity for those that live here and intend to stay here to become Australian Citizens too.
Many are qualified to become Australian Citizens but never do, I think if the country is good enough to live in and you are happy to live here and enjoy the benefits of living in OZ, then you owe it to yourself and the country to become a Citizen.

As an ex pat pom who became an Aussie citizen as soon as the need to swear allegiance to the Queen ceased to be a requirement, I fully agree with you Vic. What irks me even more is that some of those people also have the right to vote even though they are not citizens of this country.

D and D · Guru

cultana wrote:
Cloak wrote:
I believe we all have a right / duty to have an opinion on Australia Day no matter what it is.

I'm going to put a flag on my car once again and see if it doesn't get vandalised again.

I doubt people wold disagree.
But the car and flag thing, well! Especially after a bunch of social misfits did a survey in 2012 and came out saying some odd things re such an action.
http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/racism-links-to-aussie-car-flags/story-e6frg13u-1226251686129

Can't say I've seen much to dispute the findings of the survey

Vic41 · Guru

D and D wrote:
Vic41 wrote:
Great link, thanks Cloak.
A great opportunity for those that live here and intend to stay here to become Australian Citizens too.
Many are qualified to become Australian Citizens but never do, I think if the country is good enough to live in and you are happy to live here and enjoy the benefits of living in OZ, then you owe it to yourself and the country to become a Citizen.
As an ex pat pom who became an Aussie citizen as soon as the need to swear allegiance to the Queen ceased to be a requirement, I fully agree with you Vic. What irks me even more is that some of those people also have the right to vote even though they are not citizens of this country.

I just hope people who haven't bothered in the past have a good think about it and decide to do so, if you are going to stay here I believe you should, if not then I think they should leave rather than abuse the hospitality of the country that gives them their living and lifestyle. I wish there were more like you D & D wherever they come from.

People can still be proud of the country they were born in and their heritage, but no reason why they can't also embrace the country they now choose to call home by becoming a Citizen. smile

-- Edited by Vic41 on Sunday 12th of January 2014 12:40:25 AM

Cloak · Guru

The flag thing seems to be linked to racism which I'm uncomfortable with. Don't know how or when that one happened.

On one hand I want to publicly support Australia day but don't want it twisted into some vile hate thing and then get vandalised again.

If the rednecks could perhaps choose another way to get their message across please.

peterblack · Senior Member

I am a car and flag thing
also made my thoughts known to aldi also about t shirt thing

if you want to wear a t shirt wear it

cant see why its racist

-- Edited by peterblack on Sunday 12th of January 2014 09:38:59 AM

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

Way back when I got the aussie map & flag stamped on my arse it did not cost anything, and I am still proud of Australia, travelled a lot and you will NEVER find a better place to live. IMHO.

Wirroff · Senior Member

Vic41 wrote:
Great link, thanks Cloak.
A great opportunity for those that live here and intend to stay here to become Australian Citizens too.
Many are qualified to become Australian Citizens but never do, I think if the country is good enough to live in and you are happy to live here and enjoy the benefits of living in OZ, then you owe it to yourself and the country to become a Citizen.

Sadly, if only it was that simple! Being New Zealand citizens and coming to Australia in January 2003, that right was taken away from us in 2001. We were no longer treated even as 'permanent residents' let alone citizens. We couldn't get residency due to our age (over 45) and my skills not being on the skills list (Sales Manager). In the ensuing 11 years, we have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes to the Australian Government (working, house buying stamp duties etc etc) and given more to local communities than thousands of 'Aussie Citizens' ever would. But are we treated equally? Not a chance! Should we ever even need any help due to unemployment (not that we ever have been), we can't get it as we're 'non-resident'. We ARE residents for tax purposes.....strange that isn't it?

We would give our right arm to be Aussie Citizens but alas, unless there is a drastic change in the rules, this won't happen even though we've made our home here and 'feel' Australian. It's a very emotive subject with us and 000's of Kiwi's who have made a better life in Oz since 2002.

Have a look at this link: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/fair-go-nz-citizens-in-oz/

Or just Google 'New Zealanders living in Australia' and this will tell you the whole story....

Gerty Dancer · Guru

Cloak wrote:
Disappointing that something as important as citizenship we put an administration charge against. Makes us look cheap.

I remember when the world was run by engineers, humanists and scientists but by about the late 70's the accountant started
to get a say, now everything has a cost assessment against it which I find somehow pathetic.

Cheers

Victor Mildrew

Geez, Im so surprised anybody would complain about this. Cant remember the exact figure but in order to apply for permanent residence (not even citizenship) in UK my daughter & hubby paid thousands of pounds.

-- Edited by Gerty Dancer on Sunday 12th of January 2014 12:00:42 PM

Herb · Veteran Member

mmmm so reading all this I am a ratbag, I shouldn't vote ( I did so because of my grandson living here and too young to have say), I am abusing your hospitality and should go home. thanks vic and D&D for clearing that up. I wonder if the nomads who I just spent last 2 hours fixing their solar electrics or the camp I just cleaned all the toilets picked up rubbish at would agree. Still cant work out how im taking advantage tho seems as how I pay my own way with no benefits or handouts. As for the 'fit or fcuk off' what Im I trying to fit into? I'm here as a nomad to see country and meet lots interesting people, some places I go they hate nomads others very welcoming, Some nomads I have met have been great others I avoided. Guess I better avoid a couple more on here.
I agree with Wirroff its emotive issue for us. I see its a contentious issue for you. Happy travels

dazren · Guru

I don't think todays Immigrants have the same ''mindset'' as the Immigrants from the 50s and 60s, Nowadays they become Australian Citizens for ''Advantage'' Many Many Aussie citizens, hold Dual Passports, and will ''Claim '' the Citizen ship of the Country that is Most Advantageous to them ?? in a Given situation // ??

I am not a Big American fan, But I do agree with their system, I you want to be an Citizen of USA, well you need to revoke the citizenship of your previous country, and pledge your Trust and Loyalty to the country You have chosen to adopt,

Vic41 · Guru

Herb wrote:
mmmm so reading all this I am a ratbag, I shouldn't vote ( I did so because of my grandson living here and too young to have say), I am abusing your hospitality and should go home. thanks vic and D&D for clearing that up. I wonder if the nomads who I just spent last 2 hours fixing their solar electrics or the camp I just cleaned all the toilets picked up rubbish at would agree. Still cant work out how im taking advantage tho seems as how I pay my own way with no benefits or handouts. As for the 'fit or fcuk off' what Im I trying to fit into? I'm here as a nomad to see country and meet lots interesting people, some places I go they hate nomads others very welcoming, Some nomads I have met have been great others I avoided. Guess I better avoid a couple more on here.
I agree with Wirroff its emotive issue for us. I see its a contentious issue for you. Happy travels

I think you have taken this out of context Herb, I for one did not call you a ratbag and I think if you read the comments of the poster that mentioned ratbags it was suggesting those who come from a certain area of the world mostly by jumping the queue and do not have Australia's interest at heart. I also did not make the comment "fit or fcuk off".

You don't say how long you have been in Australia, perhaps you could clear that up, and are you intending to stay permanently or return to your country of birth to live eventually ? I firmly believe that anyone who intends making Australia their permanent home and are qualified to become Citizens should do so, they are here reaping the benefits and enjoying the country so why shouldn't they have the decency to become Australian Citizens in return, it is a small ask. If the cap fits so be it.

It does not concern me if you wish to avoid me, that is your choice and I certainly won't lose any sleep over it.

!cid_3A1EAAC4B7494A83AADFDA76BE1DC44B@ianpj7uhxy77ly.gif

Vic41 · Guru

dazren wrote:
I am not a Big American fan, But I do agree with their system, I you want to be an Citizen of USA, well you need to revoke the citizenship of your previous country, and pledge your Trust and Loyalty to the country You have chosen to adopt,

The Dutch at one time allowed dual citizenships Dazren, but no more. You either remain a Dutch Citizen (which requires you to reside in Holland most of the time) or if you want to live overseas become a Citizen there and you can no longer be a Dutch Citizen, this would be revoked by the Dutch if you did not live in Holland for the required time while being a Citizen of that country.

Same should apply here IMHO for anyone now residing permanently in Australia and intending to stay here.

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

I really hate to say this but Vic is right IMHO

dazren · Guru

confuse I really hate to say this but Wombat is right, ! to say that Vic41 is right ! I think it is only right ! to say that someone is right when he agrees that what that person said was right ! aww biggrin

this is only IMHO of course, ?? But that is my Right. wink

I agree with what you say Vic, just ignore those '' confrontational'' replies ? and Sleep well ?? smile

-- Edited by dazren on Sunday 12th of January 2014 03:00:02 PM

Vic41 · Guru

I certainly will Dazren.....

!cid_3A1EAAC4B7494A83AADFDA76BE1DC44B@ianpj7uhxy77ly.gif

_wombat_ · Master (of Mischief)

dazren wrote:
I really hate to say this but Wombat is right, ! to say that Vic41 is right ! I think it is only right ! to say that someone is right when he agrees that what that person said was right !
this is only IMHO of course, ?? But that is my Right.
I agree with what you say Vic, just ignore those '' confrontational'' replies ? and Sleep well ??

-- Edited by dazren on Sunday 12th of January 2014 03:00:02 PM

dazren, that's all Vic does is sleep biggrin

Pejay · Guru

It's an extra special day for Pete and myself - it's our wedding anniversary, and we are going over to the Surf Club for an all you can eat breakfast with the sun rise and watch the boats (if any) come down the passage into Moreton Bay. Just beautiful!

Vic41 · Guru

Pejay wrote:
It's an extra special day for Pete and myself - it's our wedding anniversary, and we are going over to the Surf Club for an all you can eat breakfast with the sun rise and watch the boats (if any) come down the passage into Moreton Bay. Just beautiful!

Happy Anniversary, I hope you have a great day !. Lets Party !.jpg

oldbobsbus · Guru

I just want to say that I didn't spend 6yrs in the RAAF to have some non English speaking ethnic that is enjoying our benifits tell me they don't like our way of life... furious

and reiterate FIOFO...:)

Am I a racist.... sure am I am an Aussie and proud of it ...

be one or bugga off..

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.