Ambassador to Ukraine

Today I announce the appointment of Mr Bruce Edwards as Australia’s next Ambassador to Ukraine. Mr Edwards will also be accredited to Moldova.

Australia is a steadfast supporter of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We cooperate closely as members of the Joint Investigation Team into the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, and remain committed to pursuing truth, justice and accountability for the tragedy. Australia also values its engagement with Ukraine in multilateral fora and the significant contribution made by our vibrant Ukrainian community.

Our bilateral relationship continues to develop, most recently with Ukraine granting Australians visa-free travel from 1 August 2020. Total two-way goods and services trade was valued at $213 million in 2019 and Australian investment in Ukraine was worth $73 million in 2019.

Australia also supports sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova. We value our cooperation with Moldova in multilateral fora.

Mr Edwards is a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has previously served overseas as Deputy Head of Mission in Port of Spain and Beirut, as well as postings in Kyiv and Kabul.

Mr Edwards holds a Master of Journalism from the University of Queensland; a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts from Melbourne University; a Graduate Diploma (Hons) in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Studies from the University of Tasmania; and a Graduate Certificate of Humanitarian Leadership from Deakin University.

I thank outgoing Ambassador Melissa O’Rourke for her contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in Ukraine since 2017.