High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs

Today we announce the appointment of Mr Ewen McDonald as Australia's next High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji and Australia's inaugural Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs.

Australia and Fiji hold deep and enduring bonds underpinned by the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership. Our countries have a common interest in a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient region.

Our relationship is defined by our shared priorities and values; strengthening our economies, acting on climate change, deepening connections between our people, enhancing our defence and security cooperation, and protecting the environment for the next generation.

Mr McDonald will be Australia's first Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs. Based in the region, this role reflects the Albanese Government's commitment to supporting Pacific priorities under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

It will enhance Australia's ability to respond to collective challenges and strengthen our engagement with regional organisations as a member of the Pacific Islands Forum, whose Secretariat is based in Suva.

Mr McDonald is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and has headed the Office of the Pacific for the last four years.

He has previously served overseas as Australia's High Commissioner to New Zealand with accreditation to Cook Islands and Niue.

We thank former High Commissioner John Feakes and the staff of the Australian High Commission in Suva for their contribution and commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship.