He still doesn't like Vegemite, but Nigerian-born Samson Shobowale is now an official Australian citizen.
Mr Shobowale and his family took the pledge at Rathmines alongside almost 100 other people on October 25.
The ceremony completed an almost five year journey from Mr Shobowale, his wife Oluwatosin and two daughters Erioluwa and Inioluwa moving to Australia.
The couple have since welcomed a third daughter Ewaoluwa and settled in Edgeworth.
"I came here on a skilled visa to Sydney then after a year we moved to Newcastle and we love it so we decided to settle here," Mr Shobowale said.
"The slang was hard to get used to and not being able to pronounce everything, but now I can understand and I can communicate effectively."
He even knows the proper Aussie term for an iconic Italian dish.
"Spag bol, yes I love spag bol," Mr Shobowale said with a laugh.
The family are able to retain dual citizenship with Nigeria and Mr Shobowale said taking the pledge would allow them to travel the world.
Lake Macquarie mayor Adam Shultz said the 97 people who became citizens on Friday ranged in age from five to 88 and hailed from 33 nations.
"It was amazing to see so many smiling faces and people proud to become new Australians," he said.
"Today is not just about welcoming people from across the globe as new Australian citizens, it's about recognising and celebrating the richness they add to our community with their diverse cultures and traditions."
Mayor Shultz said he was particularly excited to meet entire families taking the pledge.
"As a father of three young kids myself, I know what a special place Lake Macquarie is to bring up a family," he said.
"I'm glad people from all around the world share this sentiment."
