Ethnic community groups continue to voice their concerns over proposed changes to citizenship laws, saying they fear they could limit opportunities for new migrants and further isolate existing communities.
New measures being considered by the government include tougher English language requirements, and extending the required period of permanent residency.
More than 50,000 people have applied for citizenship since the government proposed changes to citizenship laws.
If the legislation is passed, they will be among the first people to experience the new regime.
The government wants this to include measures such as a revised "values test", and giving the immigration minister the power to overrule decisions by the administrative appeals tribunal.
But ethnic and migrant community groups have criticised the proposed amendments.
Director of the Federation of Ethnic Communities' Councils of Australia, Emma Campbell, has told a Senate inquiry many believe they would have a negative impact.
Community advocates say women would bear the brunt of the negative effects of the new requirements, with literacy rates among females tending to be lower, and often having fewer opportunities to develop their skills outside of the home.
There's also concern the changes could restrict migrants to more unstable lower-paid work, creating a permanent subclass of Australians.
Sam Wong, from the Federation of Chinese Associations of A-C-T, says the changes to the English language tests citizens could put off some people from coming to Australia and deepen divisions.
The inquiry will report on the changes early next month.
