The Albanese government has appointed Department of Foreign Affairs' Pacific Office head Ewen McDonald as Australia's first Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs.
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He will also take on the job of the next High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji.
Mr McDonald has headed the Pacific Office since it was established in 2019.
He said he would continue "to foster the relationships formed within the Pacific family" in his new role.
He said as a member of regional institutions he was looking forward to "supporting the region's priorities" in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The strategy determines how the region will work together in areas including security, economic development and climate change over the coming decades.
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In a joint release, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong and International Development and the Pacific Minister Pat Conroy said the special envoy appointment reflects the government's commitment to supporting Pacific priorities under the strategy.
They said 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".
Mr McDonald said he was honoured to be appointed to both of the new roles.
"I look forward to building on the Fiji-Australia Vuvale partnership and deepening our bilateral bonds," he said.
He will replace John Feakes as High Commissioner to the Republic of Fiji.
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Natalie Vikhrov
Natalie Vikhrov reports on federal politics and public service for The Canberra Times. Prior to this, she spent several years covering human rights in Eastern Europe, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Get in touch via natalie.vikhrov@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Natalie Vikhrov reports on federal politics and public service for The Canberra Times. Prior to this, she spent several years covering human rights in Eastern Europe, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Get in touch via natalie.vikhrov@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
