Scott Morrison defends ban on shorts and thongs for Australia Day citizenship ceremonies
Scott Morrison has defended setting out a dress code for citizenship ceremonies, saying it’s one of the most important gifts Australia can give.
Asked about his demand thongs and shorts be banned, while in tropical Cairns, the Prime Minister said it was a sign of respect.
Scott Morrison is staying strong on banning thongs and shorts from Australia Day citizenship ceremonies AAP
“Respect citizenship, respect the day,” Mr Morrison said.
“This is a very significant gift by the people of Australia to welcome someone as a citizen.
“It is one of the most, if not the most, important thing as a nation we can give to anyone in the world. And when you do it, when you provide that gift, we would expect anyone who is receiving it to treat Australia with respect.
“I wouldn’t go along to my kids’ graduation wearing boardies and thongs.
“I would respect the work they have put in and the seriousness of the day.”
Thongs might be synonymous with the Aussie summer, but don't expect them at the citizenship ceremony. Pexels
The Prime Minister was in Cairns to announce $60 million in funding to James Cook University.
Mr Morrison was forced to move his media conference indoors when a small band of protesters carrying placards threatened to drown him out.
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