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Key Points
- The average age of migrants who acquired Australian citizenship by conferral over the past decade is 33, according to data from the Department of Home Affairs.
- Only 21,220 people aged 70 to 79 gained Australian citizenship in the last 10 years.
- Between 2019-20 and 31 December 2024, the oldest person to acquire Australian citizenship by conferral was 101 years old.
The Shahs became Australian citizens at ages 78 and 74 respectively.
Arriving in Australia
The couple first came to Australia in 1999 on a visitor visa to attend their son’s graduation.
We loved the culture and visited many places across the country. We continued to visit Australia annually to spend time with our sons, who had settled in Perth.
Vipin Shah
“At this stage in our lives, we want to be with them,” Bharti said.
The attraction of peaceful and friendly environment
Vipin noted that their sons’ interest in cricket may have influenced their choice of Australia for further education.
Bharti and Vipin Shah with their family in Australia. Credit: Supplied / Vipin Shah
The Shahs are now enjoying retirement and they are actively involved in their local Perth community, participating in cultural and social activities organised by their temple.
They are also part of a senior citizens’ group, where they organise events and practice yoga weekly.
Department of Home Affairs statistics show that, between 2014-15 and 2024-25, a total of 288,452 Indian nationals became Australian citizens by conferral, with the average age of acquiring citizenship being 30.
Choosing Australia over other countries
He admits, “I didn’t know much about Australia before I started the visa process.”
Richa and Chintan Panwala will receive Australian Citizenship on 26 January. Credit: Supplied / Chintan Panwala
“Gaining permanent residency or citizenship in the Middle East is very difficult, but I wanted to secure a long-term future for myself and my family.
“Moving to Australia was the best decision I made,” Chintan said.
