The 12 men, seven women and six children recited the Australian citizenship affirmation in front of family and friends at a heart-warming ceremony yesterday.

The new citizens are drawn from India, USA, United Kingdom, South Africa, Iran, Bangladesh, France, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and the Philippines.

Doctors Amir Ashrafi and Mehrnoosh Alian, who came out to Australia from Iran in 2010, were thrilled to formally make Australia their adopted homeland.

“When we were singing the national anthem I felt unbelievably Australian and just so happy to be Australian,” Dr Ashrafi said.

The duo initially came to Australia for an “adventure”, but found the country so “friendly and multicultural” that they decided to stay.

Dr Alian said the freedoms enjoyed by citizens made Australia “one of the best countries in the world”.

“Tamworth has been so supportive and friendly that I’ve been really feeling Australian for at least the last two years,” she said.

“I do appreciate all the support from the Tamworth community for making me feel Australian since I came here.”

Tamworth mayor Col Murray said all the residents had paid both Australia and Tamworth a “great compliment” by choosing to become citizens.

“I know none of you have made the decision to seek citizenship lightly,” he said.

“Australian citizenship is a badge to be worn proudly.”