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

Today I announce the appointment of Mr Brenton Kanowski as Australia’s next Consul-General in Lae.

Papua New Guinea is an important trade and investment partner for Australia. Our economic relationship is underpinned by our Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership (CSEP).

As the principal metropolis and commercial hub for northern Papua New Guinea, and featuring Papua New Guinea’s largest port, Lae is home to many Australian residents and is a central destination for Australian investment.

The Consulate-General plays an important role in advancing Australia’s trade, commercial and development interests, while also supporting consular objectives.

Mr Kanowski is a career public servant most recently serving at the Australian High Commission, Tarawa. He has previously held positions in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Commonwealth Treasury, and within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Office of the Pacific.

I thank outgoing Consul-General Mark Foxe for his contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in Lae since 2021.

Media Contacts:
Foreign Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7500

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