As I arrive at the High Commission, which consists of 27 people, I greet Australians, Tongans and other nationalities. Together we seek to achieve a healthier and prosperous future for Tonga and maintain the strong relationship between our two countries.
Category: About DFAT
50 years on: Celebrating Beryl Wilson’s appointment as Australia’s first female trade commissioner
At a time when women were struggling to be recognised in the Commonwealth Public Service, Beryl Wilson was a trailblazer. I personally find her a strong role model and inspiration.
A Day in the Life of Australia’s Ambassador to Afghanistan: Richard Feakes
My day starts in the same way as any other Australian office worker — I reach for my suit, tie and shoes. Only in Afghanistan, I have to add another layer — heavy body armour.
Stop the sniping: We spend so little on ambassadors but they’re more important than ever
Australia is about to hold an historic meeting of the country's best diplomatic minds. At this meeting, Australia's ambassadors, high commissioners and consuls-general overseas will attempt to devise a durable strategy for Australia's future international engagement at one of the most unpredictable and possibly transformational moments of our modern era. It is in our interest that they succeed.
Being bold for change: DFAT’s South-East Asia Mainland and Regional Division
On International Women’s Day, DFAT's South-East Asia Mainland and Regional Division reflects on how women have shaped and inspired their work. The result is an important and diverse set of reflections from a group of skilled and bold women.
Laughter and lively chatter: How virtual classrooms are linking students in Australia and South-East Asia
During a recent visit to a school in Thailand, Board Chair of the Australia-ASEAN Council, Christine Holgate experienced first-hand how the work of the council is changing lives.
Foreign Policy White Paper: Maximising our influence in a changing world
Australia has achieved great success in a world underpinned by US leadership, economic openness and global rules. That world appears to be under pressure. But I believe it is not broken.
Including the first Australians in Australian diplomacy
DFAT has made a sustained effort to increase the diversity of its workforce and has improved the representation of Australia's indigenous diplomats.
Australia’s diplomacy matters more than ever in the digital age
As technology continues to grow and reshape our world we will all need to be brave, creative, involved, and connected.