As we all reflected on the importance and value of our loved ones during National Families Week last week, for 37 local families, it was especially joyous.

The 37 families were among the 236 people who officially became Australian citizens at a citizenship ceremony at Camden Civic Centre on Wednesday.

In 2009, husband and wife Thani Sivasankaran and Sangee Bg left their home in India and came to Melbourne, Australia for an employment opportunity. The couple quickly fell in love with the Australian way of life and decided to make it the home of their future children Tiki and Sidd. On Wednesday, the Leppington family of four proudly received their certificates and gave their oath of loyalty to Australia.

“When we thought about having children, it became very clear to us that we wanted them to grow up here,” Mr Sivasankaran said.

“Our favourite thing about Australia and the Camden area is the people. They are so warm and welcoming.

“It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, you feel part of the community here … I have lived in other countries as well, and I have never seen so much celebration of multiculturalism.”

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, said it was incredibly heart-warming to see the smiles on residents’ faces as they officially became Australians.

“It’s always my pleasure to witness residents make the choice to become an Australian and add to our beautiful and multicultural community,” she said.

“Congratulations to our new Aussie citizens. I’m glad they’ve chosen Camden to officially begin their life as an Australian.”