International relations

The Australian Government has been notified that, from 29 March 2024, China will remove its duties on Australian bottled wine. The re-entry of Australian bottled wine into the Chinese market will benefit both Australian producers and Chinese consumers.

The Australian Government shares the serious concerns of the Philippine Government about the actions conducted by China’s vessels against Philippine vessels and crew, including those engaged in routine resupply missions in the South China Sea on 5 and 23 March.  

Australia is supporting our region to end tuberculosis by investing $17 million in the Global Alliance for Tuberculosis (TB Alliance) to develop more effective treatments for tuberculosis and help ensure they reach those who need them.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) undertook broad consultations to inform the development of the new International Gender Equality Strategy, including over 40 round table discussions with more than 600 stakeholders in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region.

Australia is aware that Russia held presidential elections between 15 and 17 March 2024.

Throughout the Strategy's development, DFAT consulted extensively with a broad range of stakeholders. We held 40 roundtable discussions, involving over 600 representatives from civil society, government and philanthropy in Australia and across the Indo-Pacific region.

Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Tim Watts, will travel to the Republic of Korea (ROK) to represent Australia at the third Summit for Democracy.

Australia will lift its temporary pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), following steps to strengthen the integrity of UNRWA operations.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Senator the Hon Penny Wong has announced the appointment of Ms Natasha Smith as Australia's next Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany.

Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Senator the Hon Penny Wong has announced the appointment of Ms Jenny Grant-Curnow as Australia's next Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia.