The couple moved from England to Australia in 2007 and yesterday pledged their allegiance to the nation during the Australia Day celebrations at Lake Weeroona. The Makadias were all smiles as they posed for a photo with their 15-month-old son Nirbhay.

“We came to Australia for better opportunities and a better lifestyle,” Mr Makadia said. “For us the spirit of mateship that is an integral part of Australian society and culture runs parallel to our Vedic cultural beliefs.

“By being Australian citizens we believe we’ll be good citizens of the world.”

Mr Makadia works as a pharmacist and is looking forward to further building his family’s life in Bendigo.

Bendigo’s Kuriakose family are also making the most of the freedoms Australia has to offer.

Elsamma Kuriakose, her daughter Jeny and son Jermy were sworn in as Australian citizens yesterday.

The Kuriakoses moved from southern India to Australia five years ago and have been in Bendigo for about two years.

Mrs Kuriakose works as a nurse while her husband drives taxis.

“We came to Australia because we liked the culture,” Mrs Kuriakose said.

“The men and the females have the same freedoms.

“We have the right to express our feelings.

“The rules and the regulations are uniform for all human beings.”