Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

As close friends and neighbours with a rich shared history, Australia and Papua New Guinea are committed to deepening ties at all levels of our societies. The 2025 Australia Awards PNG scholarships exemplify how our two countries are working together to create opportunities that benefit both our countries and our people. This year, 90 students studying in Australia, as well as others in PNG, have been given the honorary title of Australia Awards Somare-Whitlam scholars, in recognition of Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence. The title honours the contributions of former PNG Prime Minister Great Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and former Australian Prime Minister Gough Whitlam to PNG’s independence in 1975. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong congratulated the Somare-Whitlam scholars, who shared their experiences so far and enthusiasm for the journey ahead.

Today marks three years since the start of Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Australia continues to stand with Ukraine against Russian aggression, having committed over $1.5 billion to help Ukraine defend itself. Today Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong announced the Government’s largest sanctions package since February 2022, targeting 149 persons and entities, including those in North Korea responsible for supporting Russia’s aggression. The Minister also announced a ban on the export of commercial drones and components to Russia. Today and every day, Australia stands with Ukraine. Read the joint ministerial media release here: https://lnkd.in/gj8S96En

A milestone moment at DFAT!   Secretary Jan Adams AO PSM proudly welcomed our biggest-ever graduate cohort—77 bright minds ready to take on an exciting, challenging, and rewarding 18-month rotation across every corner of our international engagement.   Hailing from all across Australia, this diverse group brings a rich mix of academic backgrounds, language skills, and fresh perspectives. Their journey will help shape the future of Australian diplomacy.   At DFAT, diversity isn’t just valued—it’s essential. As Secretary Adams said:   "We aspire to have a foreign service that reflects the people we serve. Your diverse experiences, skills, and identities are what enable us to project a modern Australia to the world."   Let the journey begin.

Bright, bold and Expo-ready. A Kangaroo on the lawns of Parliament House in Canberra? Pretty normal. But Ruby the Souvenir Kangaroo and Myaku-Myaku together? Now that’s something special. With only 58 days to go until #Expo2025 in Osaka, these larger-than-life mascots joined Australia’s Commissioner General to World Expo, Nancy Gordon, and Japan’s Ambassador to Australia, Suzuki Kazuhiro, to mark the countdown. Ruby is preparing to bring Aussie spirit to Osaka, while Myaku-Myaku will welcome the world to Japan. Together, they’re a perfect match for an Expo about collaboration, creativity and innovation, with a focus on the future. The #AustraliaPavilion at Expo 2025 will showcase the best Australia has to offer to create new business opportunities, inspire travel to Australia, and strengthen our relationship with Japan. Australia at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai

Australian artists and arts organisations interested in working in the Pacific region are invited to join a cultural sector information session from 2:00pm to 3:30pm AEDT on 6 February 2025. Hear from DFAT officials and arts organisations about the practicalities of touring and undertaking arts and cultural projects in the Pacific, Australian Government priorities and funding opportunities, and learn about the diversity of Pacific cultures. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gywAnuwP

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program is now open for applications for the 2024-25 round. The Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program supports Australian artists and organisations to deliver projects that tell Australian stories, amplify First Nations voices, and build cultural connections overseas. For more information, please visit the website. Applications close Monday 17 February 4pm (AEDT). Photo shows Burrbgaja Yalirra – Triple Bill 2, from Marrugeku (ACDGP recipient 2023-24). Credit: BoyfromBeyond - Philip Thompson

Across 2024, we’ve been involved in major multilateral conferences, visits from Ministers and have been responsible for some exciting events in Australia. Here are a few of our favourite photos from a year of active diplomacy.

Introducing the 2025 #NewColomboPlan scholars! 🌏   DFAT is pleased to announce 219 Australian undergraduate students from 33 universities across Australia have been offered NCP scholarships for 2025. ✨   This represents a 46% increase on the number of scholarships awarded in 2024. Scholars will undertake study, language training and internships in 23 host locations in the Indo-Pacific.   The Indo-Pacific capabilities and language skills students will build during their programs will deepen links, broaden Australia’s national understanding of the region and deliver on essential capabilities Australia needs.   Meet the scholars and swipe to learn more or visit the link: https://lnkd.in/gXB-UB5W   #NewColomboPlan #LanguageLearning #IndoPacifc

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA) 🇰🇷🇦🇺 I was fortunate to have celebrated the milestone with the Republic of Korea’s Minister for Trade, Dr Cheong Inkyo in September this year. Since entry into force on 12 December 2014, two-way trade between our countries has more than doubled - from $33 billion in 2013 to $71 billion in 2023. The Republic of Korea is Australia’s third largest export market, and our trade and investment relationship continues to go from strength to strength. Appetite for fresh and packaged Australian agricultural produce continues to grow, with Korean consumers eager for good quality, nutritional products. Our trade agreement has been a game changer for the agricultural sector, with the removal of high tariffs on meat 🥩 , seafood 🐟, horticulture 🌾, packaged foods and beverages. Australia wants to further enhance our partnership, and we look forward to future collaboration in sectors such as hydrogen, green metals and critical minerals. The Australian Government is committed to ensuring our trade agreement delivers for Australian and Korean businesses for years to come. #KAFTA

“It’s the only job I have ever done where I go home most days and I know I have absolutely made a difference in someone’s life”- Trudy. Trudy reflects on her time as an experienced member of the crisis response team here at DFAT and shares what it's like to assist Australians overseas in their worst moments. The 2023-24 Consular State of Play highlights the consular and crisis support provided to Australians travelling or living abroad. Make Smartraveller.gov.au your first destination where you can read, act on advice, and subscribe for destination updates.