The Australian Citizenship Day ceremony took place at the Bendigo Town Hall, where 20 residents were granted citizenship status, much to their jubilation.

New citizens originated from India, the UK, Thailand, Myanmar and Afghanistan.

The town hall ceremony included speeches by City of Greater Bendigo city futures director Stan Liacos, Bendigo Citizen of the Year Gordon McKern and Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters.

Ms Chesters spoke about Australia's proud history of multiculturalism.

"We are a country built on multiculturalism," she said.

"It's the weaving together of cultures.

"Share your story with your children, your neighbours and your community.

"On behalf of the Australian parliament I'm proud to welcome you."

The new citizens then made a pledge to Australia, led by Deputy Mayor Lisa Ruffell, and were presented with certificates.

Cr Ruffell was sworn in as Deputy Mayor last week - a legal obligation to lead the ceremony in the place of Mayor Barry Lyons, who is visiting China.

The role was formerly vacant.

Councillor Rod Fyffe said the ceremony represented a special day for participants and the wider community.

“This is very important, not only for the people who are participating but for the whole community, because it shows there are people who are willing to forgo their previous countries for our country," he said.

“There are so many of them prepared to do it and they want to become part of (Australian society)."

He said Bendigo was slowly becoming more multicultural, which was enriching.

"I think we are very accepting of people coming to our community, and it broadens our world view," he said.

Statistics reveal Bendigo remains relatively culturally homogeneous compared to the rest of Australia. 

Seven per cent of Bendigo residents were born overseas, compared with 26 per cent nationally.