Ambassador for Regional Health Security

  • Media release

TodayI announce the appointment of Mr Blair Exell as Australia's first Ambassadorfor Regional Health Security.

Theappointment of an Ambassador for Regional Health Security is an important stepin reducing health security risks to our region and signals Australia'scommitment to leadership on this important issue. The role broadens theresponsibilities currently undertaken by the Ambassador for HIV/AIDS,Tuberculosis and Malaria.

TheAmbassador will foster partnerships with other governments, including emergingdonors in our region, and lead Australia's development and implementation ofinnovative health security solutions in international fora.

Akey focus for the Ambassador will be the Indo-Pacific region. The Ambassadorwill advance Australia's interests by focussing global attention on the needsof our region, strengthening national health systems and preparing theIndo-Pacific to respond to emerging health threats.

MrExell is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs andTrade (DFAT) and is currently First Assistant Secretary, Development PolicyDivision. He has served overseas with the Australian Government in senior rolesin Indonesia, Solomon Islands and Cambodia.

Ithank outgoing Ambassador for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Mr JamesGilling for his contributions to global efforts tackling these diseases since2012.

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