Cardinal George Pell, archbishop of Sydney and the chairman of the World Youth Day local organizing committee, and Teresa Gambaro, the assistant minister of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, signed the bill today.
According to the new legislation, Australia will provide visas for registered pilgrims, free of government charges, offer pilgrims a three-month visa allowing multiple entries, and not limit the number of visas granted overall or from a particular country.
"This confirms the federal government's strong support for a successful World Youth Day," Cardinal Pell said.
He added, "These initiatives will make it easier and more affordable for pilgrims to travel to Sydney to attend this historic event."
The cardinal said that event organizers expect some 140,000 international visitors, with half of those coming from the United States, Italy and Germany.
More than 500,000 people are expected to attend the final Mass at Randwick Racecourse and Centennial Park on Sunday, July 20, to be celebrated by Benedict XVI.
ZE07100303 - 2007-10-03