SYDNEY - The two meetings, held only days apart, featured the Consul General of Italy in Sydney, Gianluca Rubagotti, accompanied by Consular Officer Daniela Raoli.
Both events attracted hundreds of compatriots eager to receive clear and practical information on how to begin or complete the process of regaining Italian citizenship.
The first meeting took place at Club Marconi in Bossley Park, an institution and point of reference for the Italian community, especially in Sydney’s western suburbs.
The event was organised with great care by the club’s leadership, including CEO Matteo Biviano and event manager Diana Gentile, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in Sydney.
The enthusiastic response confirmed once again the central role of Club Marconi, not only as a place of social gathering, but also as a cultural and civic platform for Italian families and descendants wishing to keep their identity alive.
The second meeting was held at the Canada Bay Club in Five Dock, another growing hub that in recent years has become an important point of reference for Italians in Sydney’s eastern and northern suburbs. This time the event was organised by the club’s management in collaboration with Com.It.Es of New South Wales, and participation at this event was also excellent.
The president of Com.It.Es., Luigi Di Martino, welcomed the guests. Among those present were prominent institutional figures, such as Democratic Party Senator Francesco Giacobbe, elected in the Africa-Asia-Oceania-Antarctica constituency, and Co.As.It. CEO Thomas Camporeale. Their presence highlighted the importance of the issue at hand.
On both occasions, Consul Rubagotti not only attended, but personally led the meetings, demonstrating genuine closeness to the Italian community in Sydney. With his characteristic clarity, precision and a touch of humour, he explained the steps required to regain citizenship, answering patiently and attentively to a long series of questions from the audience.
Officer Raoli’s contribution added technical expertise and solidity to the discussions, allowing participants to receive immediate and precise answers to their specific cases. There were many interventions from the public: questions, requests for clarification, personal situations and broader reflections on the connection with Italy.
The success of both events lay in the quality of dialogue created. The consul’s decision to preside personally and respond to every question was seen as a strong gesture of closeness, much appreciated by all attendees. It sent a clear message: Italian institutions stand alongside the community, ready to listen and provide support.
It should be noted that the possibility to reacquire citizenship is available only until the end of 2027. After that date, applications will no longer be accepted, so Italians interested are encouraged not to delay and to take advantage of this important opportunity.