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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Australian Government acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the Elders past and present.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.

Express your interest in being a First Nations Ambassador

Senator Patrick Dodson and Senator the Hon Penny Wong

Expressions of interest are now open to experienced Indigenous Australians for the position of Ambassador for First Nations People.

The Ambassador will head an Office of First Nations Engagement within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and will work across government agencies and departments, especially working closely with the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).

First Nations Australians are our country’s first traders and diplomats, with skills honed over thousands of years, but which have not been fully acknowledged. Appointing an Ambassador for First Nations People is an opportunity to change this.

DFAT are seeking Indigenous Australians who have extensive networks and engagements across First Nations communities and experience in driving policy reform and delivery in Indigenous policy and/or programs, in line with government priorities. The role will draw on candidates’ knowledge of Australia’s foreign policy interests and how they relate to First Nations Australians.

A key role of the Ambassador will be to undertake consultation with First Nations communities, leaders and advocates to listen and engage directly on how Australia's international engagement contributes to Indigenous community and economic development, supports First Nations businesses and exporters, delivers practical action on climate change, builds connections across the Indo-Pacific region and supports Indigenous rights around the world.

For more information on the role and to apply, visit Expression of interest for the role of Ambassador for First Nations People. EOI applications close on 4 November, 11pm AEDST.

If you have any questions, please reach out to: First.Nations.EOI@dfat.gov.au