Our foreign service is the driver of Australia’s engagement with the world.

Today we announce new appointments that strengthen Australia’s diplomatic capability and its prosecution of our national interests around the globe.

In keeping with past practice of appointing experienced former ministers to significant diplomatic posts, the Government intends to appoint the Hon Dr Kevin Rudd AC as Australia's next Ambassador to the United States.

Dr Rudd brings unmatched experience to the role. He has served as Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, held prominent academic roles and worked extensively in the United States. It is intended that he will commence his posting in early 2023.

Joining Dr Rudd in the United States is Ms Heather Ridout AO as Australia’s Consul-General in New York, she is the first woman to be appointed to the role. A former Chief Executive of the Australian Industry Group, Ms Ridout brings four decades of experience to the role. She is currently Director of Sims Ltd and Director of Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) Limited.

We are also pleased to announce Ms Bronte Moules as Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for Human Rights. As Ambassador for Human Rights, Ms Moules will lead Australia’s work to protect and promote human rights globally and be a key advocate on issues of importance to our region.

Ms Stephanie Copus-Campbell has been appointed Australia’s Ambassador for Gender Equality. Ms Copus-Campbell will deepen Australia’s international engagement on gender equality with her expertise in community development, gender equality and health.

We also announce the appointment of career diplomats to lead Australian posts:

1. Ms Sophie Davies as Australia’s Ambassador to Brazil
2. Dr Ralph King as Australia’s Ambassador to Israel
3. Ms Sonya Koppe as Australia’s High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago
4. Ms Minoli Perera as Australia’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe
5. Mr Richard Rodgers as Australia’s Ambassador to Croatia
6. Ms Phoebe Smith as Australia’s High Commissioner to the Cook Islands

We thank outgoing ambassadors, high commissioners and consul-general for their contributions to advancing Australia's interests in these countries during their respective tenures.