Consul-General in Chicago

Today I announce the appointment of Mr Chris Elstoft as Australia’s next Consul-General in Chicago.

Chicago is a major cultural and economic hub in the Midwest region of the United States and an important centre for international business and global finance.

Australia’s ties with the Midwest are a key part of our deep economic partnership with the United States, which is our largest source and destination of international investment. The Midwest region covers 12 states with a population of 69 million and an economy worth US$4.9 trillion.

The Consulate-General in Chicago advances Australia’s business, education, research and development, and arts and cultural interests in the Midwest. It also provides consular and passport services to Australians who live in or visit Chicago and the region.

Mr Elstoft is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was most recently Assistant Secretary, Investment Branch. He has previously served overseas in India, Indonesia, Iraq and Papua New Guinea as well as with the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.

I thank acting Consul-General Emma Buckham for her contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in Chicago since March 2022.