New arrivals to Bonegilla were expected to assimilate.
While Bonegilla was a reception and processing centre, it also provided training as nearly all post-war refugees and migrants were non-British and considered aliens who had to be taught English and about the Australian way of life.
Newcomers were accepted as permanent residents and at Bonegilla, the aliens would be prepared ‘to take their place in the Australian community.’
At Bonegilla, migrants and refugees would take their first steps in moving from ‘New Australian’ to ‘True Australian’.
To aid assimilation and encourage a sense of belonging, Centre walls were decorated with Australian scenes, the British sovereign’s portrait appeared in most public places, and both the Union Jack and Australian ensign flags flew.
Children were encouraged to celebrate Empire Day and given special treats on Coronation Day in 1953 and during the Royal Visit in 1954.
Engagement was fostered with the local community through sports matches, concerts, handicraft, and cultural displays. Residents performed folk dances to raise money for local hospitals, joined in events, and helped fight bushfires
However, immigration authorities eventually realised that adaption took years rather than weeks and that it worked two ways – the local society was changing as well as the newcomers.