SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

THE HON LINDA BURNEY MP
MINISTER FOR INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS

SENATOR PATRICK DODSON
SPECIAL ENVOY FOR RECONCILIATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ULURU STATEMENT FROM THE HEART

The Australian Government is seeking public expressions of interest from individuals to be considered for the Ambassador for First Nations People.

The Government is delivering on its commitment to implement the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full, and embed Indigenous perspectives, experiences and interests into our foreign policy.

Australia’s foreign policy should reflect our modern diversity and the rich heritage of First Nations people.

The Ambassador will head an Office of First Nations Engagement within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to listen to and work in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This is the first time an Ambassador position has been open to a public expression of interest, enabling qualified and interested individuals to apply.

Further information on the expression of interest process for the Ambassador for First Nations People is available at First Nations EOI.

Quote attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

“The Ambassador for First Nations People will lead work to embed Indigenous perspectives, experiences and interests into our foreign policy, including to help grow First Nations’ trade and investment.

“The Ambassador will also lead Australia’s engagement to progress First Nations rights globally.

“This role will enhance our engagement in the Indo-Pacific region by fostering cooperation on shared interests.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Linda Burney MP:

“Appointing an Ambassador for First Nations People is an opportunity to ensure the unique perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are included in our international engagements.

“An Ambassador for First Nations people will be supported to engage with likeminded countries to share our commitment to the Uluru Statement from the Heart and experiences of treaty and truth telling processes”

Quote attributable to Senator Patrick Dodson:

“This is the first time Australia will have a dedicated level of First Nations representation to inform the way we engage with the world.”

Media Contact:
Foreign Minister Office: +61 2 6277 7500

Authorised by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.