Australia and Vanuatu have a strong and enduring bilateral relationship, based on shared values and interests in a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.

Australia established a presence in Vanuatu in 1978 and championed the case for Vanuatu's independence in the United Nations and Pacific Forums in the lead up to independence in 1980. Australia opened a consulate in 1978, followed by a high commission in Port Vila in 1980, in 2025 we celebrate 45 years of close diplomatic relations. Australia and Vanuatu enjoy a very broad range of links at government, business and community levels. Australia's engagement aligns with Vanuatu's National Sustainable Development Plan 2030. Australia is proud to be Vanuatu’s largest bilateral economic, development, security, and humanitarian partner.  
 

Vanuatu has a unicameral 52-member parliament, elected to a four-year term by universal adult suffrage. The President of the Republic of Vanuatu (constitutional head of state) is elected for a five-year term through secret ballot by an electoral college comprising members of parliament and the presidents of Vanuatu's six provincial governments. The current President, His Excellency Nikenike Vurobaravu, was elected for a five-year term on 25 July 2022. The Prime Minister is elected by Parliament from among its members by secret ballot. Vanuatu's Parliament elected the Hon Jotham Napat MP as Prime Minister of Vanuatu on 11 February 2025.