A new office is to be established within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to listen to and work in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Announced by the Ministers for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney and for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, the Office of First Nations Engagement is to be led by an Ambassador for First Nations People.
The Ministers have put out a call for expressions of interest from individuals who’d like to be considered for the ambassadorship.
“Australia’s foreign policy should reflect our modern diversity and the rich heritage of First Nations people,” Ms Burney said.
“This is the first time an Ambassador position has been open to a public expression of interest, enabling qualified and interested individuals to apply,” she said.
“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.”
Ms Burney said the Ambassador would be supported to engage with likeminded countries to share the Government’s commitment to the Uluru Statement from the Heart and experiences of treaty and truth telling processes.
Senator Wong the new role would lead work to embed Indigenous perspectives, experiences and interests into Australia’s 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,” Senator Wong said.
“This role will enhance our engagement in the Indo-Pacific region by fostering cooperation on shared interests.”
Further information on the expression of interest process for the Ambassador for First Nations People can be accessed at this PS News link.
