[Australia]: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Owen · Feb 19, 2024

Headquarters

R.G. Casey Building, Barton, Australian Capital Territory

Ministers

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
Minister for Foreign Affairs	The Honourable Kevin Rudd, MP
Minister for Trade	The Honourable Senator Penny Wong
Minister for Pacific Island Affairs and Overseas Aid	The Honourable Senator Jenny McAllister
Minister for Tourism	The Honourable Martin Ferguson, MP
Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs	The Honourable Senator Don Farrell
Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade	Michael L'Estrange, AO

NOTE: Consulates consist of only one person; the Consul. They are an honorary position and are usually operated out of the personal offices or businesses of the Consul. Consulate-General's are directly operated by DFAT and have multiple DFAT staff and a DFAT appointed Consul-General.

Office:	Size:	Location:
Torres Strait Treaty Liaison Office	50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Thursday Island

Branches

Branch:	Role:
Consular Operations Branch	Manages crisis responses and provides emergency assistance and consular services for Australian citizens traveling or living overseas.
Crisis Preparedness and Management Branch	Focuses on protecting Australians abroad and ensuring national readiness for international emergencies.
Consular Communications and Policy Branch	Responsible for developing consular policy, managing the Consular Services Charter, and overseeing public outreach through the Smartraveller platform to assist Australians traveling overseas.

Consular Emergency Centre
+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas or 1300 555 135 in Australia

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Crisis Centre, R.G. Casey Building

Name:	Participants:	Held:	Last Held:
Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations	Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Australian Minister for Defence United States Secretary of State United States Secretary of Defense	Quadrennially	N/A
Australia-United Kingdom Ministerial Consultations	Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Australian Minister for Defence United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defence	Quadrennially	January 2005 Edinburgh, Scotland
Singapore-Australia Joint Ministerial Committee	Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Australian Minister for Defence Singaporean Minister for Foreign Affairs Singaporean Minister for Defence	Quadrennially	N/A
Australia-New Zealand Leaders' Meeting	Prime Minister of Australia Prime Minister of New Zealand	Biennially	N/A

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Polynesia and Micronesia Division	Ric Wells

Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
Cook Islands	8/10	Avarua (High Commission)	Allan Hawke	50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions
New Zealand	10/10	Wellington (High Commission) Auckland (Consulate-General) Christchurch (Consulate-General)	Paul O'Sullivan	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Wellington) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Wellington) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Auckland) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Christchurch)	Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty Australia-New Zealand Closer Economic Relations Trade Agreement Australia-New Zealand Maritime Treaty Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement Australia-New Zealand Social Security Agreement Australia-New Zealand Reciprocal Health Care Agreement Intergovernmental Agreement on Australia's National Counter-Terrorism Arrangements Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions
Niue	8/10	Alofi (High Commission)	Patricia Forsythe	25x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement Australia-New Zealand Reciprocal Health Care Agreement Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Melanesia Division	Patricia Holmes

Flag:	Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
	New Caledonia (France)	6/10	Nouméa (Consulate-General) See France	Annelise Young (Consul-General)	50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors	Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise a high degree of caution

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, East Asia Division	Graham Fletcher

Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
Ming Dynasty (China)	5/10	Beijing (Embassy) Chengdu (Consulate-General) Guangzhou (Consulate-General) Shanghai (Consulate-General) Shenyang (Consulate)	Frances Adamson	250x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Beijing) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Beijing) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Shanghai) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Guangzhou) 25x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Chengdu)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the Ming Dynasty	5/10	Hong Kong (Consulate-General) See China	David O'Leary (Consul-General)	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
State of Japan	5/10	Tokyo (Embassy) Osaka (Consulate-General) Fukuoka (Consulate-General) Sapporo (Consulate)	Murray McLean	250x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Tokyo) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Tokyo) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Osaka) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Fukuoka)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
Empire of Korea	5/10	Seoul (Embassy) Pyongyang (Consulate-General) Busan (Consulate)	Peter Rowe	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Seoul) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Seoul) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Pyongyang)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
Macao Special Administrative Region of the Ming Dynasty	5/10	See Hong Kong	See Hong Kong	None	None	Exercise normal safety precautions

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Southeast Asia Maritime Division	Jon Philp

Flag:	Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
	Republic of Singapore	9/10	Tanglin (Embassy)	Gary Quinlan	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors	Status of Forces Agreement between Australia and Singapore Agreement between Australia and Singapore regarding external defence	Exercise normal safety precautions

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Southeast Asia Mainland Division	Justin Lee

Flag:	Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
	Socialist Republic of Thailand	5/10	Bangkok (Embassy) Phuket (Consulate-General) Chiang Mai (Consulate) Ko Samui (Consulate)	Bill Paterson	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Bangkok) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Bangkok) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Phuket) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Phuket)	Australia-Thailand Agriculture Co-operation Agreement Australia-Thailand Cultural Agreement Thailand-Australia Partnership on Food Security	Do not travel

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, South and Central Asia Division	Brendan Berne

Flag:	Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
	India	5/10	New Delhi (Embassy) Mumbai (Consulate-General) Kolkata (Consulate-General) Chennai (Consulate-General)	John McCarthy	300x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (New Delhi) 30x Diplomatic Security Contractors (New Delhi) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Mumbai) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Kolkata) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Chennai)	None	Exercise a high degree of caution Do not travel (Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir)

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Americas Division	Justin Brown

Flag:	Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
	Canada	8/10	Ottawa (High Commission) Toronto (Consulate-General) Vancouver (Consulate)	Louise Hand (High Commissioner)	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Ottawa) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Ottawa) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Toronto)	Australia-Canada Social Security Agreement Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement	Exercise normal safety precautions
	United States of America	10/10	Washington, D.C. (Embassy) New York City (Consulate-General) Los Angeles (Consulate-General) Chicago (Consulate-General) Houston (Consulate-General) San Francisco (Consulate-General) Honolulu (Consulate-General) Atlanta (Consulate-General) Denver (Consulate) Miami (Consulate) Phoenix (Consulate)	Kim Beazley	300x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Washington, D.C.) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Washington, D.C.) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (New York City) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (New York City) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Los Angeles) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Los Angeles) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Chicago) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Honoulu) 25x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Houston) 25x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (San Francisco) 25x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Atlanta)	Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty United States-Australia Status of Forces Agreement Naval Communication Station North West Cape Agreement Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Europe Division	Mark Higgie

Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
Federal State of Austria	5/10	Vienna (Embassy)	David Stuart	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
French Republic	6/10	Paris (Embassy) Papeete (Consulate-General)	Matthew Neuhaus	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Paris) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Paris) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Papeete)	Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions
Federal Republic of Germany	5/10	Berlin (Embassy) Frankfurt (Consulate-General)	Pamela J. Fayle	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Berlin) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Berlin) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Frankfurt)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
Kingdom of the Netherlands	5/10	The Hague (Embassy) The Hague (Australian Permanent Mission to the Global Assembly)	Lydia Morton (Ambassador) Gillian Bird (Permanent Representative of Australia to the Global Assembly)	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Embassy) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Embassy) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Permanent Mission to the Global Assembly)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
Kingdom of Poland	5/10	Warsaw (Embassy)	Margaret Adamson	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors	Memorandum of Understanding on Educational Exchange between Australia and Poland	Exercise normal safety precautions
Russian Federation	5/10	Moscow (Embassy) Saint Petersburg (Consulate) Vladivostok (Consulate)	Margaret Twomey	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise a high degree of caution
Kingdom of Sweden	5/10	Stockholm (Embassy) Pretoria (Consulate-General) Cape Town (Consulate)	Howard Brown (also Permanent Representative of Australia to the Nordic Council)	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Stockholm) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Stockholm) 100x Diplomaic, Consular and Mission Staff (Pretoria) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Pretoria)	None	Exercise normal safety precautions Exercise a high degree of caution (South Africa)
Ukraine	5/10	Kyiv (Embassy)	Jean Dunn	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise normal safety precautions
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland	10/10	London (High Commission) Edinburgh (Consulate-General) Cardiff (Consulate-General) Belfast (Consulate-General) Manchester (Consulate)	Mike Rann (High Commissioner and Ambassador to the Transatlantic Security Arrangement) Ron Dyer (Agent-General for New South Wales) Sally Capp (Agent-General for Victoria) John Dawson (Agent-General for Queensland) Kevin Skipworth (Agent-General for Western Australia) Maurice de Rohan (Agent-General for South Australia) Ken Bacon (Agent-General for Tasmania)	300x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (London) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (London) 100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Edinburgh) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Cardiff) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Belfast)	Australia-United Kingdom Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement Australia-United Kingdom Health Services Agreement Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Forum Secretariat Agreement Establishing the South Pacific Commission	Exercise normal safety precautions Exercise a high degree of caution (Northern Ireland)

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
First Assistant Secretary, Middle East and Africa Division	David Ritchie

Country:	Relations:	Diplomatic Missions:	Head of Mission:	Personnel:	Agreements:	Travel Advisory:
Sultanate of Egypt	5/10	Cairo (Embassy)	Robert Newton	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 30x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise a high degree of caution
Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia	5/10	Addis Ababa (Embassy)	Lisa Filipetto	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 30x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise a high degree of caution
Guarded Domains of Iran	5/10	Tehran (Embassy)	Jeremy Roger Newman	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff 30x Diplomatic Security Contractors	None	Exercise a high degree of caution Reconsider your need to travel (West Azerbaijan, Kurdistan, Kermanshah and Ilam Provinces)
Republic of Turkey	5/10	Ankara (Embassy) Istanbul (Consulate-General) Çanakkale (Consulate)	James Larsen	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Ankara) 20x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Ankara) 50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff (Istanbul) 10x Diplomatic Security Contractors (Istanbul)	None	Exercise a high degree of caution Reconsider your need to travel (Şanlıurfa, Adıyaman, Malatya, Elazığ, Tunceli, Erzincan, Erzurum, Ardahan, Kars, Iğdır, Ağrı, Van, Bitlis, Muş, Batman, Bingöl, Diyarbakır, Mardin, Siirt, Şırnak and Hakkâri Provinces)

Type:	Amount:	Image:
Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	3,200
Property Management Staff	1,000
Diplomatic Security Contractors	500

Property:	Location:	Address:	Image:
Embassy of Australia, Washington D.C.	Washington D.C., United States	1601 Massachusetts Avenue Northwest, Washington, D.C.
High Commission of Australia, London	London, England	Australia House, Strand, London
High Commission of Australia, Ottawa	Ottawa, Canada	Suite 1301, 50 O'Connor Street, Ottawa
Embassy of Australia, Paris	Paris, France	4 Rue Jean Rey, Paris
Embassy of Australia, Berlin	Berlin, Germany	76-79 Wallstraße, Berlin
Embassy of Australia, The Hague	The Hague, The Netherlands	4 Carnegielaan, The Hague
Embassy of Australia, Warsaw	Warsaw, Poland	11 Nowogrodzka Street, Warsaw
Embassy of Australia, Moscow	Moscow, Russia	10A/2 Podkolokolny Lane, Moscow
Embassy of Australia, Stockholm	Stockholm, Sweden	Level 8, Waterfront Building, 63 Klarabergsviadukten, Stockholm
Embassy of Australia, Kyiv	Kyiv, Ukraine	13A Kostolna Street, Kyiv
Embassy of Australia, Cairo	Cairo, Egypt	Level 11, World Trade Center, 1191 Corniche El-Nil, Cairo
Embassy of Australia, Addis Ababa	Addis Ababa, Ethiopia	House No. 734, Turkish Compound, Kebele 03, Bole Sub City, Addis Ababa
Embassy of Australia, Tehran	Tehran, Iran	11 Yekta Street and Bahar Street, Tehran
Embassy of Australia, Ankara	Ankara, Turkey	Level 7, MNG Building, 88 Uğur Mumcu Caddesi, Ankara
Embassy of Australia, New Delhi	New Delhi, India	1/50G Shantipath, New Delhi
Embassy of Australia, Bangkok	Bangkok, Thailand	37 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok
Embassy of Australia, Singapore	Tanglin, Singapore	25 Napier Road, Singapore
Embassy of Australia, Beijing	Beijing, China	21 Dongzhimen Outer Street, Beijing
Embassy of Australia, Tokyo	Tokyo, Japan	2 Chome-1-14 Mita, Minato City, Tokyo
Embassy of Australia, Seoul	Seoul, Korea	Level 19, Kyobo Building, 1 Jong-ro, Seoul
Embassy of Australia, Vienna	Vienna, Austria	The Icon, 2 Gertrude-Fröhlich-Sandner-Straße, Wien, Vienna
High Commission of Australia, Wellington	Wellington, New Zealand	72-76 Hobson Street, Wellington
High Commission of Australia, Avarua	Avarua, Cook Islands	Philatelic Bureau Building, Takuvaine Road, Avarua
High Commission of Australia, Alofi	Alofi, Niue	Tapeu-Porritt Road, Alofi	None
Consulate-General of Australia, Auckland	Auckland, New Zealand	Level 7, HSBC Tower, 188 Quay Street, Auckland
Consulate-General of Australia, Christchurch	Christchurch, New Zealand	Level 5, Forsyth Barr Building, 764 Colombo Street, Christchurch
Consulate-General of Australia, Noumea	Nouméa, New Caledonia	11 Rue Georges Baudoux, Nouméa
Consulate-General of Australia, Chengdu	Chengdu, China	Level 27, Square One, 18 Dongyu Street, Chengdu
Consulate-General of Australia, Guangzhou	Guangzhou, China	Level 11 & 12, Development Centre, 3 Linjiang Boulevard, Guangzhou
Consulate-General of Australia, Shanghai	Shanghai, China	Level 22, Citic Square, 1168 Nanjing West Road, Shanghai
Consulate-General of Australia, Hong Kong	Wan Chai District, Hong Kong S.A.R.	Level 23, Harbour Centre, 25 Harbour Road, Wan Chai
Consulate-General of Australia, Osaka	Osaka, Japan	Level 16, Twin 21 MID Tower, 2-1-61 Shiromi, Osaka
Consulate-General of Australia, Fukuoka	Fukuoka, Japan	7th Floor, Tenjin Twin Building, 1 Chome-6-8 Tenjin, Fukuoka
Consulate-General of Australia, Pyongyang	Pyongyang, Korea	Munsu-dong Compound, Pyongyang
Consulate-General of Australia, Phuket	Phuket, Thailand	Level 6, CCM Complex, 77/77 Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Road, Phuket
Consulate-General of Australia, Mumbai	Mumbai, India	Level 10 A Wing, Crescenzo Building, G Block, Plot C 38-39, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai
Consulate-General of Australia, Kolkata	Kolkata, India	1A Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kolkata
Consulate-General of Australia, Chennai	Chennai, India	Level 9, Express Chambers, Express Avenue Estate, Whites Road, Chennai
Consulate-General of Australia, Toronto	Toronto, Canada	Suite 1100 South Tower, 175 Bloor Street East, Toronto
Consulate-General of Australia, New York City	New York City, United States	Level 34, 150 East 42nd Street, New York City
Consulate-General of Australia, Los Angeles	Los Angeles, United States	Level 31, Century Plaza Towers, 2029 Century Park East, Los Angeles
Consulate-General of Australia, Chicago	Chicago, United States	Suite 1330, 123 North Wacker Drive, Chicago
Consulate-General of Australia, Houston	Houston, United States	Suite 1310, 3009 Post Oak Boulevard, Houston
Consulate-General of Australia, San Francisco	San Francisco, United States	Level 18, 575 Market Street, San Francisco
Consulate-General of Australia, Honolulu	Honolulu, United States	Penthouse, 1000 Bishop Street, Honolulu
Consulate-General of Australia, Atlanta	Atlanta, United States	Suite 1140, Atlanta Financial Center, 3353 Peachtree Road Northeast, Atlanta
Consulate-General of Australia, Papeete	Papeete, French Polynesia	Level 2, CCISM Building, 41 Rue du Dr Cassiau, Papeete
Consulate-General of Australia, Frankfurt	Frankfurt, Germany	Level 28, Main Tower, 52-58 Neue Mainzer Strasse, Frankfurt
Consulate-General of Australia, Pretoria	Pretoria, Swedish South Africa	292 Orient Street, Pretoria
Consulate-General of Australia, Edinburgh	Edinburgh, Scotland	Capital House, 2 Festival Square, Edinburgh
Consulate-General of Australia, Cardiff	Cardiff, Wales	Level 5, Capital Tower, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff
Consulate-General of Australia, Belfast	Belfast, Northern Ireland	Level 3, BT Riverside Tower, 5 Lanyon Place, Belfast
Consulate-General of Australia, Istanbul	Istanbul, Turkey	Level 16, Süzer Plaza, 15 Asker Ocağı Caddesi, Istanbul
Permanent Mission of Australia to the Global Assembly, The Hague	The Hague, The Netherlands	Adjacent the Global Assembly Headquarters

Property:	Location:	Address:	Primary Resident:
White Oaks	Washington D.C., United States	3120 Cleveland Avenue Northwest, Woodley Park	Ambassador to the United States
Stoke Lodge	London, England	45 Hyde Park Gate, Kensington	High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
Australia House	Ottawa, Canada	407 Wilbrod Street, Sandy Hill	High Commissioner to Canada
High Commissioner's Residence	Wellington, New Zealand	15 Butavas Street, Khandallah	High Commissioner to New Zealand
Consul-General's Residence	New York City, United States	Apartment 11/12B, 1 Beekman Place, Midtown East	Consul-General in New York
Consul-General's Residence	Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China	39 Island Road, Deep Water Bay	Consul-General in Hong Kong and Macau
Ambassador's Residence	Berlin, Germany	3 Douglasstraße, Berlin-Grunewald	Ambassador to Germany
Ambassador's Residence	Tanglin, Singapore	9 White House Park, Tanglin	Ambassador to Singapore
Ambassador's Residence	Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	33 Jalan Langgak Golf, Taman U-Thant	Ambassador to Malaysia
Ambassador's Residence	The Hague, The Netherlands	6 Tobias Asserlaan, The Hague	Ambassador to the Netherlands Permanent Representative of Australia to the Global Assembly
Derozhinskaya's House	Moscow, Russia	13 Kropotkinsky Lane, Moscow	Ambassador to Russia

Overview

The Australian Passport Office is an independent operating agency of the Government of Australia with bureaucratic oversight provided through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio. It issues Australian passports to Australian citizens in Australia and overseas under the Australian Passports Act and related laws. The Passport Office may also issue other types of travel documents to non-citizens, such as Australian Refugee Travel Document, Australian Certificate of Identity or Document of Identity. The Australian Passport Office has offices in each of the nine Australian capital cities. Australia only issues biometric passports, called ePassports, which have an embedded microchip that contains the same personal information that is on the colour photo page of the passport, including a digitised photograph. As all previous passports have now expired, all Australian passports are now biometric.

The Australian Passport Office works with two agents: Australia Post and the Australian Passport Information Service (APIS). Australia Post provides a nationwide passport service on behalf of DFAT through over 1,700 outlets. Its role includes distributing application forms for Australian passports, receiving Australian passport applications and renewal applications and interviewing applicants. The Australian Passport Information Service (APIS) provides a high quality telephone information service for Australian passport clients. Australian passports can be renewed overseas by submitting a completed passport renewal application form in person at the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate, together with the previous passport and two identical photos, and payment of the fee, including the overseas surcharge.

Under the Australian Passports Act, the Minister for Foreign Affairs has the power to refuse, cancel or suspend a passport on a number of grounds including national security or health. In addition, a court can order an accused in a criminal matter, or any other person, to surrender their passport, for example, as a condition of grant of bail or otherwise.

Types of Passports

Type:	Eligibility:	Validity:	Pages:
Ordinary Passport	Australian citizen Born in Papua New Guinea before 16 September 1975 and one parent was born in Australia	10 years (adult) 5 years (child) 12 months (Limited Validity Passport) Up to 3 years (concurrent passport)	34 pages 66 pages (frequent traveller)
Diplomatic Passport	Australian citizens employed or acting on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Dependents of the above	10 years Up to 3 years (concurrent passport)	34 pages
Official Passport	Australian citizens employed or acting on behalf of an Australian government (federal, state and territory) or Australian Defence Force Dependents of the above	10 years Up to 3 years (concurrent passport)	34 pages
Emergency Passport	Australian citizens outside of Australia who do not have an Ordinary Passport and need to travel urgently	Between 7 and 12 months	4 pages

Non-Passport Travel Documents
Note: Some non-passport travel documents may also be issued by the Department of Home Affairs Identity and Biometrics Specialist Branch.

Type:	Eligiblity:	Validity:	Pages:
Australian Refugee Travel Document	Recognised refugees residing in Australia (permanent or temporary protection visa holders)	2 years	34 pages
Australian Certificate of Identity	Non-Australian citizens in Australia who cannot obtain a passport of their own nationality for various reasons (including statelessness)	3 years	4 pages
Australian Document of Identity	Australian citizens who wish to travel to Norfolk Island or to whom it is unnecessary or undesirable to issue a passport to	3 years	4 pages
Provisional Travel Document	Australian citizens in an emergency when no other options are available to them, in order to travel to the nearest Australian diplomatic mission (issued by honorary consuls or accredited foreign missions)	Single Journey	1 page

Features

Passport Note

The passports contain inside the front cover a note that is addressed to the authorities of all countries and territories, identifying the bearer as a citizen of Australia and requesting that the bearer be allowed to pass and be treated according to international norms:

"The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, being the representative in Australia of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, requests all those whom it may concern to allow the bearer, an Australian Citizen, to pass freely without let or hindrance and to afford him or her every assistance and protection of which he or she may stand in need."

Identity Information Page

The Australian passport includes the following data:

Photo of passport holder
Type (of document, "P" for "personal")
Code of issuing state (listed as "AUS" for "Australia")
Document No.
Family name
Given names
Nationality ("Australian")
Date of birth
Sex (M, F or X)
Place of birth (only the city or town is listed, even if born outside Australia)
Date of issue
Date of expiry
Holder's signature
Authority ("Australia" if issued in Australia, or the name of the issuing diplomatic mission if issued overseas – e.g. London)

The information page ends with the machine readable zone. The passport is printed in English. French translation is found on the identity information.

Biometric Chip

The embedded chip stores the owner's digitised photograph, name, sex, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and the passport expiry date. This is the same information that appears on the printed information page of every passport. Facial recognition technology was introduced with the release of the ePassport to improve identity verification and reduce identity-related fraud.

Security Features

Microprinting – for example, horizontal lines on the notice/bearer's information pages are made up of microprinted words. In current passports the lines are made up of the word "Australia" repeated. They also feature microprinted words from Clancy of the Overflow on the visa pages.
The laminate of the identity information page contains retro-reflective floating images of kangaroos.

Overview

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's (DFAT's) Protocol Branch (PRB) provides services and guidance to foreign missions, international organisations and other government agencies in accordance with Australia's obligations under the Resolution on International Diplomacy, the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act and the Consular Privileges and Immunities Act. PRB's support and services include:

facilitating agrément and credentials requirements for Australian and foreign Heads of Mission
providing diplomatic and consular accreditation, visas and identity cards for officers posted to Australia
expediting the establishment of embassies and consulates in Canberra, Australian states and the Northern Territory
processing requests for honorary consul representation in Australia
assisting with reverse consular liaison between missions and Australian police and health services
coordinating airport facilitation for visits by high-level dignitaries

PRB provides advice to diplomatic missions and other government agencies on:

privileges and immunities and rights of protection applicable under the Resolution on International Diplomacy and other international legal instruments and laws
the Australian Government's Indirect Tax Concession Scheme
bilateral arrangements covering the employment of dependants of diplomatic and consular officials
engagement of foreign domestic workers by eligible accredited staff
issues related to the diplomatic estate in Canberra

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
Chief of Protocol	Anne Plunkett

Foreword

Dear Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Welcome to Australia!

The Australian Government values the presence in Australia of over 7,000 members of the diplomatic corps, the consular corps, the Global Assembly and international organisations. We take our responsibilities under the Resolution on International Diplomacy seriously and are committed to providing you high quality and efficient support in your mission. As a courtesy, Australia extends most privileges and rights (except in regards to firearms and other weaponry) under the Resolution on International Diplomacy to states which are not members of the Global Assembly. In return, the Australian Government expects all foreign officials and their dependants, missions, posts and offices to respect Australian laws and community expectations – including in relation to driving, the treatment of locally-engaged and domestic staff, and domestic violence.

Our Protocol Guidelines below provide you and your missions further advice on these and other matters that affect you, your dependants and staff – as well as your official residences and offices. Our Living in Australia guide provides further information to help you and your dependants make the most of life in Australia. We invite open communication with missions and posts to promote close cooperation and help resolve any specific issues in a transparent and consistent manner. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Protocol Branch is available to assist by email at protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au. For urgent matters outside working hours, you can call the Protocol Branch Emergency Duty Officer on 0418 167 127.

I wish you an enjoyable and rewarding posting in Australia.

Chief of Protocol.

1. Introduction to Australia and its system of government

The Commonwealth of Australia is a federation of six states and two self-governing territories. The national government is the Australian Government, also referred to as the federal government or Commonwealth government. The constitution gives certain powers to the federal government, some powers are shared with the states and territories, while other powers remain with the states and territories. The states and territories thus have a significant degree of autonomy; the Australian Government does not have the legal power to influence many of their decisions.

Further information about Australia's system of government can be found on the australia.gov.au website. Following is some practical information about interacting with parliament and the federal government.

1.1 Head of State and Governor-General

Australia's Head of State is the Queen of Australia, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Under the Australian Constitution, executive power is exercised by the Governor‑General as the Queen's representative. The Governor-General is appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister of Australia. The Prime Minister is Head of Government.

Each state has a governor, who is appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Premier (head of government) of that state.

1.2 National anthem and flag

Australia's national anthem is Advance Australia Fair. It is played at all official and ceremonial occasions where the anthem is required. Information on the flag can be found on the australia.gov.au website.

1.3 Commonwealth Table of Precedence

The Commonwealth table of precedence provides the necessary information to allow seatings and introductions to be made in the correct order. Tables of precedence differ between the Commonwealth and the various states. South Australia and Western Australia do not issue tables of precedence - the Commonwealth table should be used as a guide.

When a person is acting in any of the positions listed, he/she enjoys the same precedence but appears behind anyone at that level attending in their own right. Married couples enjoy the precedence of the spouse with the higher precedence.

1.4 Indigenous protocols

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are inherently linked to their ancestral lands. Connection to Country is crucial to Indigenous identity, spirituality and cultural wellbeing.

An Acknowledgement of Country is the practice of recognising the Traditional Custodians of the land on which a gathering is held. It can be performed by Indigenous or non-Indigenous persons and is a demonstration of respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and recognition of the relationship the Traditional Custodians have with their Country. There is no set wording for an Acknowledgement of Country, though often a statement takes a general form such as:

"I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today. I also pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging and I extend that respect to any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people present."

Welcome to Country ceremonies performed by Indigenous Elders are appropriate for major events, including official launches, opening ceremonies, exhibitions and functions where official guests are in attendance. Protocols for conducting a Welcome to Country vary according to region, and content should be negotiated well in advance with Elders. The Traditional Custodians of the Australian Capital Territory are the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people.

1.5 Gifts

It is not customary in Australia to exchange gifts in the conduct of government business. Public servants are instructed to avoid accepting gifts, if possible. Where it is judged that refusal might cause offence, a gift may be accepted. Its receipt will be reported. If missions or posts wish to show appreciation or goodwill to public servants, gifts of substantial items or alcohol should always be avoided.

As a general principle, state and territory officials and dignitaries do not present gifts when meeting members of the diplomatic or consular corps, and their preference is for no gifts to be offered by foreign officials.

1.6 The Parliament

The presiding officers of the Parliament are the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Heads of Mission wishing to call on the presiding officers should contact the secretary to the President (telephone: (02) 6277 3300) and the secretary to the Speaker (telephone: (02) 6277 4000) at Parliament House. Appointments should be sought for parliamentary sitting weeks as the presiding officers are not usually in Canberra at other times.

1.6.1 Diplomatic Gallery seating

Five seats in the Speaker's Gallery in the Chamber of the House of Representatives are allocated as the Diplomatic Gallery for Heads of Mission or their representatives to observe the proceedings of the House. Missions should reserve their seats in advance. This can be done through the secretary to the Speaker of the House of Representatives (telephone: (02) 6277 4000). Tickets for booked seats should be collected from the Gallery Ticket Office located on the first floor of the Members' Hall. When the Diplomatic Gallery is fully booked, it may be possible to provide members of the Diplomatic Corps with seats in one of the visitors' galleries to the Chamber.

Inquiries about seats in the Senate Chamber Galleries should be made to the office of the President of the Senate (telephone: (02) 6277 3300).

1.6.2 Australian elections

Australia is a democracy and takes pride in the integrity of its elections. Freedom of expression and peaceful political protest are a key part of Australia's system. While diplomatic missions in Australia are encouraged to openly and transparently observe Australian elections, missions are asked to respect Australian laws and regulations and not interfere in Australian electoral processes.

Actions by missions that may be inappropriate or may even, in some circumstances, breach laws (including the Resolution on International Diplomacy) could include:

Providing financial donations to a political party, or asking an individual in the community to donate to a political party on your government's behalf;
Protesting against or advocating for a particular political party or candidate, or to trying to influence any member of these communities, or any voter, to vote in a particular way or to support any particular candidate; or
Placing media (openly or covertly) that either favoured one candidate or party, or were negative about a particular candidate or party

1.7 The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

DFAT's page includes the current members of the department's senior executive. In addition, there are entries providing information on Australia's bilateral relations and its foreign, trade and investment and aid policies, as well as advice on international travel. There is also information on Austrade and Tourism Australia. DFAT has offices in each Australian capital city.

1.7.1 Portfolio ministers

The foreign affairs and trade portfolio supports the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Trade, the Minister for Tourism, the Minister for Pacific Island Affairs and Overseas Aid and the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs. When writing to portfolio ministers, missions should address their communications as follows:

The Hon Kevin Rudd MP
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

1.7.2 Protocol Branch

DFAT's Protocol Branch provides services to:

the diplomatic corps, comprising more than 110 embassies and high commissions in Canberra, and over 40 foreign heads of mission based in third country capitals who have non-resident accreditation to Australia
the consular corps – around 370 consulates-general and consulates in cities outside Canberra, headed by career consular staff or by honorary consuls
Global Assembly and other international organisations that are headquartered or represented in Australia
a small number of non-diplomatic representative offices

The information in this guide is primarily for use by members of the diplomatic and consular corps whose status derives from the Resolution on International Diplomacy, regardless if the sending state is a Global Assembly member or not. Much of the practical advice provided applies also to accredited representatives of international organisations.

Protocol Branch does not manage guest of government matters; these are the responsibility of the Protocol and International Visits Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Contact details:

Chief of Protocol: (02) 6261 3242
Director - Diplomatic and Consular Accreditation (Deputy Chief of Protocol): (02) 6261 1290
Director - Protection, Privileges and Immunities (Deputy Chief of Protocol): (02) 6261 1017
Personal Assistant to Chief of Protocol: (02) 6261 1860
Email: protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au
After Hours/Emergency Protocol Duty Officer: 0418 167 127

1.7.3 Correspondence with DFAT

Correspondence specifically on protocol matters should be sent to Protocol Branch. This includes advice of head of mission absences from Australia and mission closures. For other matters, missions should send correspondence, including notes verbales, directly to the appropriate area of the department (there is no need to send copies to Protocol Branch):

general bilateral issues should be directed to the relevant geographic area
legal matters should be referred to the Legal Division, specifically:
- extradition, mutual assistance and taking of evidence requests in relation to criminal proceedings - transnational.crime@dfat.gov.au
- sanctions enquiries - sanctions@dfat.gov.au
- treaties enquiries - treaties@dfat.gov.au
- taking of evidence requests in relation to civil and commercial proceedings, service of civil and commercial legal documents and child maintenance matters - paralegalunit@dfat.gov.au
matters concerning international organisations, including candidacies, should be directed to the Multilateral Policy Division

1.7.4 National days

There is no Australian Government requirement that missions host official national day events in Canberra. Missions may host these in any state or territory, to align with where their national communities and businesses are based, and where MPs or Senators with close links to these communities may be available to represent Australia.

When held in Canberra, DFAT will usually be represented at national day functions by the Chief of Protocol and the Assistant Secretary of the relevant geographic branch. Where functions are hosted by a Chargé d’Affaires, DFAT will normally be represented by a Deputy Chief of Protocol.

The Chief of Protocol is available propose a loyal toast but not a speech. The loyal toast is a local custom only and not an Australian Government requirement. Missions may prefer to celebrate customs appropriate to their national cultures, instead of the loyal toast. The Chief of Protocol should be informed in advance of any special formalities.

For the loyal toast, the Chief of Protocol is invited to propose the first toast to the Head of State and the people of the host country; this is followed by the first verse of the host country's national anthem. The host country's Head of Mission then proposes a toast to the Queen and the people of Australia; this is followed by the first verse of the Australian national anthem.

1.8 Other departments and government agencies

The australia.gov.au website is a comprehensive guide to government information and services. The Australian Government Directory provides contact details for the offices and personnel of the Governor-General and the Commonwealth Parliament, courts and departments and agencies. There are also directories of state and territory governments.

Contact with the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government can be facilitated by the Senior Manager of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Community Services Directorate (telephone: (02) 6207 0555 or fax: (02) 6207 5862).

1.8.1 Communication with Australian Government authorities

The Australian Government encourages diplomatic and consular missions to conduct routine official business directly with relevant departments and agencies rather than going through DFAT. However, in accordance with the Resolution on International Diplomacy, missions should consult DFAT on all matters of a policy nature that could affect bilateral or multilateral trade or foreign relations. Administrative matters handled by agencies other than DFAT should be sent directly to those agencies, including:

requests for diplomatic clearances for state aircraft or ships, which should be sent directly to the Department of Defence. See Chapter 17 Diplomatic clearances - aircraft and ships for more information.
enquiries about or letters of support for visas for officials/delegations visiting Australia, which should be directed to the relevant Australian diplomatic mission or consulate overseas or to the Department of Home Affairs in Australia
enquiries about the arrest or detention of foreign nationals in Australia, which should be directed to the relevant state or territory police or corrective services authorities
enquiries about the immigration detention of foreign nationals in Australia, which should be directed to the Department of Home Affairs
International Court of Justice requests, which should be sent directly to the Attorney-General's Department

1.8.2 Media and publicity materials issued by missions

The Australian Government attaches great importance to the free flow of information and recognises that it is an accepted function of diplomatic missions and consular posts to issue public statements, including media releases and social media communications, and to distribute material and publications expressing the point of view of their government on international questions. All efforts should be made to ensure such statements are accurate and written in respectful language.

DFAT requests that missions and posts provide the Parliamentary and Media Branch (media@dfat.gov.au) with copies of the publicity and media material that they distribute.

2. Heads of mission

This chapter provides information about the nomination and accreditation of new heads of diplomatic missions in Canberra.

2.1 Agrément

Requests for agrément for new heads of mission (ambassadors or high commissioners) should be submitted to Protocol Branch. Such requests may be made by note verbale or letter from the mission in Canberra or from the foreign ministry of the sending state. For non-resident missions, requests may be made through the Australian mission in the city where the nominee usually resides. A detailed curriculum vitae should be provided with the request. A formal response can usually be expected within six to eight weeks.

Australia has a strict practice of maintaining confidentiality regarding head of mission nominations until agrément has been granted.

2.2 Australian citizens and permanent residents

An Australian citizen or permanent resident will not be accepted as a head of mission (HOM) by the Australian Government unless there are exceptional circumstances. If agrément is given for such an appointment, the privileges and immunities of the HOM will be those provided for in the Resolution on International Diplomacy that is solely in respect of 'official acts performed in the exercise of his/her functions'.

2.3 Multiple accreditation

Protocol Branch should be formally notified of any proposal by a sending state to accredit a head of mission (HOM) concurrently to another country. A Canberra-based HOM is expected to present credentials in Australia before presenting in other countries of accreditation.

2.4 First arrival

When a HOM-designate arrives in Australia for the first time, facilitation at the international airport can be arranged. This facilitation is also available to HOMs on their final departure from Australia.

On arrival, an Australian Border Force officer will meet the HOM-designate planeside and accompany them through arrivals procedures (immigration and baggage customs and quarantine clearance). One official from the mission may accompany the Australian Border Force officer.

To request facilitation, missions should complete an Airport Facilitation Request form (see chapter 14) and email it to Protocol Branch at least five working days before the HOM-designate's arrival. Facilitation does not extend to escorting the HOM-designate to a domestic flight (which at some airports, notably Sydney, will require a change of terminal).

The mission is responsible for meeting the HOM-designate at Canberra airport on first arrival, and for all practical arrangements such as baggage collection and transport. If missions wish to access VIP rooms, they should contact the airport directly. Charges usually apply. Protocol Branch does not book airport VIP rooms in Canberra or other cities.

2.5 Order of precedence and assumption of official duties

HOMs-designate officially take up their functions and assume their place in the order of precedence within the diplomatic corps on presentation of their credentials to the Governor-General (see section 2.6). Credentials are presented strictly in the order that HOMs-designate arrive in Canberra (not their date of arrival in Australia). Until credentials are formally presented, the title 'Ambassador-designate' or 'High Commissioner-designate' should be used.

Different arrangements apply to precedence and credentials for high commissioners who represent countries where Her Majesty The Queen is the Head of State (see section 2.7). HOMs-designate may perform some official acts before presenting credentials, such as calling on senior officials of the department, the Dean of the Corps and other HOMs. Generally, it is not appropriate for a HOM-designate to host official functions or to call on ministers until credentials have been presented. The Chief of Protocol will consider requests for exemptions in exceptional circumstances.

2.6 Presentation of credentials to the Governor-General

Credentials ceremonies take place at Government House in Canberra. For resident HOMs, they are tentatively scheduled every two months from late February/early March. (For non-resident HOMs, see 2.6.4 and 2.11.) As participation in credentials ceremonies is determined by the order in which HOMs-designate physically arrive in Canberra and a minimum of three participants is required, a firm commitment on the date and time of the ceremony can usually only be given closer to the occasion.

Participants in the ceremony may wear national costume, a dark business suit or a day dress (no hats or gloves), or military uniform with full decorations (no sword).

Gifts are not exchanged.

2.6.1 Form of address for letters of credence and recall

Letters of credence and recall should be addressed to:

His Excellency the Right Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC
Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

2.6.2 Meeting with the Chief of Protocol

Working copies of letters of credence and recall (in the original language with English translations) should be handed over before or during the HOM-designate's initial call on the Chief of Protocol, soon after arrival in Canberra. During the meeting, to which the HOM-designate may bring one or two colleagues from the mission, the Chief of Protocol will provide a briefing on the ceremonial procedures for the presentation of credentials.

Missions should complete the questionnaire provided by Protocol Branch covering practical details such as dietary restrictions, the need for interpreters, and spouse's curriculum vitae well in advance of the ceremony. Government House will deliver a detailed program for the ceremony to the HOM-designate the day before the ceremony.

2.6.3 Presentation of credentials by resident heads of mission

The HOM-designate may be accompanied at the ceremony by their spouse and up to three members of accredited staff from the mission or a consular post interstate. On the day of the ceremony, the HOM-designate and accompanying party are escorted to Government House by the Deputy Chief of Protocol. Transport is provided in Australian Government vehicles.

On arrival at the State Entrance to Government House, the HOM-designate is greeted by the Chief of Protocol and an aide-de-camp to the Governor-General. The spouse of the HOM-designate is greeted by a Government House official. The HOM-designate and party stand at the State Entrance to receive a salute with musical honours from the Guard of Honour.

After the salute, the HOM-designate and party move inside to the drawing room. The Chief of Protocol presents the HOM-designate to the Governor-General. With a few suitable words, the HOM-designate hands the letters of credence and recall to the Governor-General. The Governor-General shakes hands with the HOM and photographs are taken. The Governor-General then presents the Viceregal Consort to the HOM, followed by the Foreign Minister's representative (usually a DFAT Deputy Secretary) and the Official Secretary to the Governor-General. The HOM in turn presents their spouse to the Governor-General and Viceregal Consort. The HOM then presents accompanying officials to the Governor-General and Viceregal Consort.

The Governor-General, accompanied by the minister's representative and the Official Secretary, invites the HOM to their study for a private discussion lasting approximately 10 minutes, while the Viceregal Consort invites the HOM's spouse to the morning room. The HOM's colleagues remain in the drawing room with the Chief of Protocol, the Governor-General's staff and protocol officers. Photographs are taken outside (or in the drawing room in the event of bad weather). After re-entering the house, the HOM and spouse take leave of the Governor-General and Viceregal Consort, and exit via the State Entrance.

The HOM is escorted onto the lawn to a saluting point in front of the Guard of Honour, where a national or royal salute is given, the national flag is broken and the national anthem of the HOM is played. The HOM is invited to inspect the Guard of Honour and the Military Band. On completion of the inspection the HOM and party are shown to the official vehicles. The national anthem is played again as the motorcade leaves Government House. In the event of rain, aspects of the ceremony involving the Guard of Honour and the Military Band are modified.

The Governor-General hosts a lunch on the same day as the ceremony for participating HOMs, each accompanied by their spouse and one official. HOMs return to Government House for the lunch in their own vehicles. Before the lunch, local Indigenous Elders offer a Welcome to Country. This takes place in the presence of the Governor-General on the lawn in front of Government House. The Welcome to Country can include a smoking ceremony. Guests are not required to participate in any particular way but may greet or thank the Elders in their own language.

Photographs taken at the ceremony are provided electronically to missions as soon as they become available. Protocol Branch will advise of an email link and an individual password to access the images. Missions are welcome to download photographs for their own use. A set of printed photographs will be sent to the HOM approximately one week after the ceremony.

2.6.4 Presentation of credentials by non-resident heads of mission

Non-resident HOMs-designate are offered a date and time for an individual call on the Governor-General to present credentials. They may be accompanied by their spouse and/or one official either from their mission or a consular post in Australia.

The HOM-designate is driven to Government House in an Australian Government vehicle and accompanied by a representative of Protocol Branch. They are presented to the Governor-General by the Chief of Protocol. After presenting the letters, the HOM-designate will be invited to have a short discussion with the Governor-General. Tea or coffee will be served. Photographs are taken but there are no speeches or ceremonial elements.

Photographs taken during the call are available electronically as soon as they become available. Protocol Branch advise of an email link and an individual password to access the images. Missions are welcome to download photographs for their own use. Protocol Branch will arrange delivery of a set of printed photographs following the presentation of credentials.

See section 2.11 for further details on credentials visits by non-resident HOMs.

2.7 Presentation of letters of introduction to the Prime Minister

High commissioners from realm countries (where Her Majesty The Queen is the Head of State) present letters of introduction to the Prime Minister rather than credentials to the Governor-General. They assume their place in the order of precedence from the date of their arrival in Canberra and may immediately perform all official functions.

Protocol Branch arranges an appointment for a high commissioner to call on the Prime Minister for this purpose. There are no ceremonial elements to this call but, subject to the preferences of the Prime Minister of the day, photographs are usually taken.

2.8 Introductory calls

2.8.1 Portfolio ministers and DFAT

After the HOM has presented credentials, the mission can contact the offices of portfolio ministers and the Secretary of DFAT to request introductory calls. The ministers and the Secretary may agree to introductory calls, but they do not do so as a matter of course. If a HOM has instructions to raise substantive issues with ministers or the Secretary, this should be noted in the request.

New HOMs should arrange to make introductory calls on other relevant senior staff of the department at an early opportunity. Such calls may be made prior to presenting credentials, but after meeting the Chief of Protocol.

2.8.2 Prime Minister

It is not customary for HOMs to make introductory or farewell calls on the Prime Minister (high commissioners who present letters of introduction are an exception - see section 2.7).

If a HOM receives instructions during their posting to raise a substantive matter with the Prime Minister, the mission should request an appointment through the International Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

2.8.3 Other government ministers, departments and office holders

HOMs should make their own arrangements to call on other ministers of the Australian Government with whom they expect to have dealings. They may do the same with senior officials of other government departments and agencies, subject to standard international practice that policy matters are conducted through, or with the knowledge of DFAT. HOMs may also seek meetings directly with the following offices, if they wish:

the Speaker of the House of Representatives
the President of the Senate
the Leader of the Opposition

2.8.4 States and Northern Territory

HOMs are encouraged to visit state and territory capitals as part of their normal domestic outreach. Missions are encouraged to advise state and territory governments in advance of a planned visit through the respective Premier's or Chief Minister's Department, particularly if they are seeking meetings with State and Territory Ministers and Parliamentarians. Missions are responsible for all costs and arrangements for domestic outreach visits. In some circumstances, state and territory governments may choose to offer facilitation support.

2.9 Absences - appointment of chargés d'affaires ad interim/acting high commissioner

The nomination of a chargé d'affaires ad interim or an acting high commissioner should be made as provided for in the Resolution on International Diplomacy. Where the nomination is made by the HOM, a note verbale to Protocol Branch will suffice.

If the HOM is already absent from Australia and a chargé d'affaires ad interim/acting high commissioner has to be either nominated or replaced, the relevant foreign ministry must provide that advice. The ministry's advice can be sent to Protocol Branch via the mission in Canberra or to the Australian mission in the country concerned.

2.10 Departure

The Chief of Protocol should be formally notified of the final departure of a HOM at least six weeks in advance. Protocol Branch can seek, on behalf of the HOM, a farewell call on the Governor-General if missions request it.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Minister for Trade and Tourism, and the Secretary of DFAT do not receive farewell calls as a matter of course and there should be no expectation that these can be arranged. Missions should advise Protocol Branch if a departing HOM wishes to call on either Minister and/or the Secretary, and should then contact the relevant office directly to negotiate a time.

Departing HOMs are welcome, but not obliged, to make a farewell call on the Chief of Protocol. HOMs are free to make farewell calls on other dignitaries, ministers and officials in Canberra or other states and territories by direct arrangement. Protocol Branch should be notified by note verbale of chargé/acting high commissioner arrangements before the departure of the HOM in accordance with section 2.9.

Facilitation can be arranged at the international airport through which the HOM finally departs Australia. To request this service, missions must complete an Airport Facilitation request form (see chapter 14) and email it to Protocol Branch at least five working days before the HOM's departure. As the departure of a HOM is considered a private occasion, DFAT staff are not involved in airport farewells.

As per standard procedures for all staff (see chapter 4.5), a Departure Notification – Accredited Officials and Dependants form should be completed and submitted to Protocol Branch together with their diplomatic identity cards.

2.11 Non-resident heads of mission

To expedite their accreditation, a non-resident HOM-designate may present credentials to the Governor-General via video call. Such virtual presentations can be arranged by Protocol Branch, after copies of the letters of credence are provided and verified.

Alternatively, a non-resident HOM may present credentials in an individual call on the Governor-General. As it may take some time to organise a mutually convenient time for a call, the HOM-designate should give plenty of notice and indicate a range of dates when they are available to travel to Australia. HOMs should arrive in Canberra at least one working day ahead of their presentation, in order to meet the Chief of Protocol and hand over the working copies of the letters of credence and recall.

A representative of Protocol Branch will meet the HOM-designate and party on arrival in Canberra if this occurs during normal business hours. Airport facilitation can be requested at the points of entry and departure on the first visit to Australia (see section 2.4 and section 2.10). Protocol Branch will arrange transport from Canberra airport to the hotel. HOMs are not farewelled when they depart Canberra.

Except for the transfer to their hotel on arrival in Canberra, and travel to and from Government House for presentation of credentials, non-resident HOMs must organise their own transport, including on departure. Information about car hire, taxis and limousine services in Canberra is available online. HOMs are also responsible for organising their accommodation in Canberra. There are several hotels in Barton within short walking distance of DFAT; other hotels are located at Canberra airport and in Yarralumla, Canberra City and New Acton.

Non-resident HOMs may be accompanied when presenting their credentials by their spouse and/or one official, such as a colleague from their mission or an honorary consul who represents their country in Australia. The party will be escorted to Government House by a representative of Protocol Branch. The HOM-designate will be introduced to the Governor-General by the Chief of Protocol. After presenting the letters, the HOM-designate will be invited to have a short discussion with the Governor-General. Tea or coffee will be served. Photographs are taken but there are no speeches or ceremonial elements. The relevant geographic branch in DFAT will arrange a program of visits and meetings in Canberra. Suggestions for particular meetings are welcome and will be accommodated if possible.

Non-resident HOMs should request a diplomatic visa before travelling to Australia on official business. This can be done via a note verbale to the nearest Australian diplomatic mission. There is no need to advise of temporary absences, but non-resident HOMs are asked to inform Protocol Branch when they complete their assignment in the country of their resident accreditation. They are not expected to visit Canberra for farewell calls.

3. Diplomatic missions, consular posts and other representative offices

All diplomatic missions in Australia are located in Canberra, the national capital and seat of the federal government. Diplomatic missions cannot have 'branches' outside Canberra; their accredited staff must reside in Canberra. Diplomatic staff may perform consular functions throughout Australia, regardless of the existence of any consular post or its jurisdiction.

In certain circumstances, the Department will consider proposals by missions to co-locate their official premises, on the understanding that physical co-location in no way indicates that the missions concerned are less than independent offices with their own identities, agendas and operations. Co-location does not connote joint or mutual or shared representation.

All consular posts are located in major centres – usually capital cities (outside the Australian Capital Territory). There are no consular posts in Canberra. Consular posts are headed and staffed either by career consular officers or by honorary consuls, but not a combination. The size of missions and posts should be kept within reasonable and normal limits, having regard to their operational needs.

Representative offices which operate separately to the diplomatic missions and consular posts in Australia (e.g. cultural, language, tourism and trade institutions) will not be recognised by the Department as diplomatic or consular entities. Officers posted to work for these institutions will not be afforded diplomatic or consular accreditation.

Several agencies of international organisations maintain offices in Canberra and other Australian capital cities. The status of these offices and their staff derive from sources other than the Resolution on International Diplomacy. Nevertheless, much of the advice in these guidelines applies equally to them.

3.1 Diplomatic missions

The establishment of a diplomatic mission in Canberra requires the prior approval of the Australian Government. The sending state should provide a note verbale detailing the reasons for opening a mission, its intended main functions and activities, proposed timing for opening and an indication of the number and level of staff to be assigned. The sending state may request agrément for a head of mission when seeking approval for the mission's establishment, or later. Once approval has been granted, Protocol Branch will liaise with the authorities of the sending state on the practical issues involved.

If a sending state wishes to send a reconnaissance team to Canberra for research and discussion before making a formal request to establish a mission, Protocol Branch can assist with advice and contacts. The following designations are used for staff of diplomatic missions:

Ambassador/High Commissioner
Chargé d'Affaires ad interim/Acting High Commissioner
Minister/Minister-Counsellor/Counsellor
Deputy High Commissioner
First/Second/Third Secretary
Attaché
Defence Attaché (for non-Commonwealth realm countries)/Defence Adviser (Commonwealth realm countries)

3.2 Consular posts

The establishment of a new consular post in Australia – whether staffed by career or honorary consular officers – requires the prior consent of the Australian Government. The Australian Government must be, satisfied that a post is warranted, taking into account the range and volume of business to be conducted. The process of establishing a new consulate can take up to three months.

The sending state must provide a note verbale detailing the reasons for opening a post; the functions to be performed (e.g. issuing passports and visas, notarial acts and consular assistance); expected caseload; proposed staffing arrangements and jurisdiction. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, jurisdiction should cover states/Northern Territory in their entirety; and only one post per state/Northern Territory will be approved.

For new posts to be headed by career consuls, acceptance of the head of post and other staff is managed through the visa and accreditation processes outlined in chapter 4. The Australian Government does not accept appointments with the title ‘Honorary Consul-General’ or the promotion of ‘Honorary Consul’ to ‘Honorary Consul-General’. Consular designations include:

Consul-General
Deputy Consul-General
Consul/Honorary Consul
Vice-Consul/Honorary Vice-Consul

3.2.1 Posts headed by Honorary Consuls

For consular posts to be headed by honorary consuls, the note verbale (see above) must also specify the location of the office; the telephone and email details of the honorary consul; and proposed business hours. Approval for the honorary consul may be requested at the same time (see below).

3.2.2 Honorary consul nominations

Before an honorary consul nomination can be approved, Protocol Branch liaises with the police and other authorities in each state or territory encompassed by the consular district to ensure that they have no objections to the proposed appointment. Honorary consul nominees must:

be Australian citizens or permanent residents
be of good character
enjoy a good reputation in the local community
be accessible to and trusted by all potential consular clients
be able to communicate and maintain good relations with the authorities in the consular district
reside in a major centre (preferably a capital city) in the consular district
be contactable at all times, or have contingency arrangements in place, in case of emergencies
declare any conflict of interest, either real or perceived, including that they do not hold a position of profit (directly or indirectly) or a position of trust with an Australian Federal, State/Territory or Local government entity which is considered by the entity to be incompatible with the duties of an honorary consular officer

The sending state must include all of the following with the nomination:

a full curriculum vitae for the nominee;
the nominee's contact details;
a National Police Check (NPC) Application form to be requested from Protocol Branch, completed and signed by the nominee (NOT a Police Certificate);
a certified copy of the personal data pages of the nominee's passport; and
a certified copy of the nominee's driver licence
note verbale declaring the sending state certifies that:
- the nominee to be of good character and reputation;
- the nominee has declared any conflict of interest (real or perceived) to the sending state and other relevant parties; and
- the sending state has considered any risks arising from the conflict of interest and agrees with proposed risk mitigations

The appointment of an honorary consul is a matter between the sending government and the Australian Government. It is conducted formally through diplomatic channels. Until an appointment has been accepted, it is not appropriate for a nominee to initiate contact with Protocol Branch, including to seek updates on the nomination. If necessary, the candidate should engage with the sending government while the nomination is being processed.

After the nomination of an honorary consul is approved, Protocol Branch will advise the sending government by note verbale and will follow up regarding accreditation procedures. Honorary consuls appointed as heads of post will be issued with an exequatur authorising them to perform consular functions. When an honorary consul's position becomes vacant, Protocol Branch allows up to two years for a successor to be nominated and accredited. If the position remains vacant after two years, the post is deemed closed.

It is the responsibility of the honorary consul to remain in good statue within the community. Furthermore, if the Honorary Consul's circumstances, roles and or other responsibilities were to change and this was to affect the good character, conduct, reputation and or real or perceived conflict of interest to the Honorary Consul's position, DFAT Protocol Branch must be informed immediately, through the relevant mission.

Any changes to the location or business hours of the post must be conveyed to Protocol Branch.

3.2.3 Support for honorary consuls

Honorary consuls may receive administrative support from persons in their office or home. However, such persons are not accredited, are not empowered to perform substantive consular functions, and have no immunities or privileges. Honorary consuls cannot appoint a delegate, deputise, or ask other persons to perform substantive consular functions on their behalf.

3.3 International organisations

Arrangements for Global Assembly and other international organisations and their staff vary according to the terms on which the office has been established. In all cases, however, the nomination of staff must be made from headquarters, not by the local office.

4. Visas and accreditation

All home-based staff must be formally nominated and accepted by the Australian Government before travelling to Australia to take up their appointments. This is done through the request for and grant of visas. For diplomatic and consular officials, visas must be formally requested by the sending state's foreign ministry; for staff of international organisations, visa requests must be made by the organisation's headquarters. The Australian diplomatic mission or consulate with responsibility for the sending country or organisation can advise what details are required for the visa request to be considered by Protocol Branch. Additional information such as a full job description and CV may be required.

For defence attachés/advisers and their deputies, who must be serving military personnel, a nomination and full curriculum vitae must be provided four to six weeks before planned travel to Australia. Confirmation of acceptance must be obtained before visas are requested. Defence attachés/advisers and their deputies will be given diplomatic accreditation. Clerical support staff/assistants to defence attachés/advisers (who may be military personnel or civilians) do not have to be nominated and approved in advance. They will be given Administrative and Technical accreditation.

Prior approval must also be obtained for career heads of consular posts. A note verbale nominating the head of post and a full curriculum vitae must be provided at least four weeks before proposed commencement in the role. Once acceptance of the appointment is confirmed by Protocol Branch, a diplomatic visa should be requested. Exequaturs are not issued to career consuls.

Transfers within Australia e.g. from a diplomatic mission in Canberra to a consular post interstate – are treated as new postings, and formal nomination by the foreign ministry is required. Once the transfer is approved by Protocol Branch, departure and arrival documentation must be submitted before the new accreditation can be finalised.

An incoming official's accreditation should match that of the person they are replacing. For a new position, a full description of the role and duties is required to enable the correct accreditation to be determined. If an official is assigned to a position that has been vacant for more than two years, this will be treated as a new position, and comprehensive information will be required.

The Australian Government does not accept the appointment of Australian citizens or permanent residents as diplomatic or consular representatives of another country. Any person who chooses to renounce their Australian citizenship or permanent resident status to assume a diplomatic or consular role for another country will need to apply again (including paying any applicable fees) to the Department of Home Affairs on completion of their assignment to have their citizenship or permanent residency approved. There is no guarantee that such an application would be successful.

4.1 Dependents

The Australian Government will accept dependants of the officer (primary applicant) who form part of the household for the duration of the posting. The dependants must be formally nominated by the sending government or international organisation, and that reciprocal recognition would be given by the sending state. Dependant family members include:

the spouse or partner, including de facto and same sex partners
unmarried children up to 21 years of age, provided they physically reside with the officer, and remain part of the household on a fulltime basis

Consent for minors

Requests involving children under the age of 18 where only one parent or legal guardian is listed on the application must be accompanied by confirmation from the relevant foreign ministry that the application complies with local legal consent requirements. This confirmation must include verification that all required parties have provided their consent to the child being granted an Australian diplomatic visa.

Other dependants

Other dependants should apply to the Department of Home Affairs for an appropriate alternative visa, such as a student visa or a visitor visa. In exceptional and limited circumstances - at the formal request of the sending foreign ministry - the Protocol Branch may consider other dependants that are:

clearly dependent on the officer for medical reasons
have an established history of dependency on the officer
have an established history of physically residing with the officer and being part of the household on a fulltime basis, including on previous postings
have attempted to apply for an alternative visa in the first instance

The foreign ministry must explain:

the nature of the dependency
provide documents to prove the dependency and residence
provide documents to prove relevant medical conditions that make the dependant reliant on the officer
evidence that an alternative visa could not be obtained

4.2 Visas

All foreign officials posted to Australia and their dependants must hold valid visas. Members of the diplomatic and consular corps and the staff of some international organisations are granted diplomatic (subclass 995) visas, for an initial term of up to four years. These visas have a multiple-entry provision, allowing the holder to enter and leave Australia without limitation until the 'must not arrive after' date noted in the visa grant notice. Diplomatic visas cease to be valid when an official's posting is completed, regardless of the date shown on the visa grant notice. See the table in section 4.6 for information on who may be eligible for diplomatic visas.

Visas are provided to foreign officials and their dependants on the understanding that staff are rotated regularly and not posted indefinitely. Requests for new visas after the initial visa's validity expires are considered on a case-by-case basis up to a maximum of ten years. Visa renewals should be requested by the mission or post four weeks before the 'must not arrive after' date.

Children born to foreign officials during their posting in Australia must obtain an Australian visa. The birth must be registered with an Australian Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages; a copy of the birth certificate and a colour copy of the personal data page in the child's passport should then be sent to Protocol Branch with a request for a visa. Missions, posts and international organisations are required to inform Protocol Branch if an official's dependants leave the household, so that their diplomatic visas can be ceased.

No one is permitted to have more than one Australian visa, even if they have multiple passports. If foreign officials or their family members obtain other visas during their posting to Australia, these will cancel the original visas and affect their accreditation.

4.3 Accreditation

Officials of diplomatic missions are accredited as diplomatic, administrative and technical, or service staff. Officials of consular posts are accredited as consular officers, consular employees, service staff or honorary consuls. Accreditation of staff of international organisations varies according to the legal basis of the office's establishment.

Protocol Branch will consider requests for the accreditation of service staff provided they are of the nationality of the sending state and have been officially appointed as representatives of the sending government. To establish the status of persons nominated as service staff, a CV, detailed job description, copy of the contract of employment, and evidence of an official or service passport should be included with the nomination from the foreign ministry. The welfare and the conduct of service staff are the responsibility of the sending government and its foreign mission in Australia.

For home-based officials, the mission/post/office must notify Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) promptly of new arrivals, and provide completed Arrival Notification – Accredited Official and Arrival Notification – Official's Dependants forms, a colour copy of the passport personal data page and one colour passport photo for the official and spouse. These forms are required even should the dependant(s) arrive separately at a later date.

Honorary consuls must complete an Honorary Consul – Commencement form and return it with a colour passport photo to Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au). They must provide telephone numbers and confirm (by ticking the relevant section on the form) that these numbers, and home address if used at the consulate office, may be published in the publicly available Consular List.

Protocol Branch will then formally accredit the official. Identity cards (see section 4.4) are issued to all officials and to the spouses of diplomats, administrative and technical staff and consular officers. Identity cards are not issued to the spouses of consular employees, service staff or honorary consuls, or to children.

Hand-over periods should be avoided to the extent possible and strictly limited when necessary. Protocol Branch should be consulted when seeking hand-over periods in excess of two weeks so that potential issues, including reciprocity matters, arising when two officers are accredited in the same position can be considered.

The names and designations of diplomats, consular officers and senior representatives of international organisations and their partners are published in the Diplomatic List and the Consular List. If an official's rank or accreditation changes during their posting, Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) should be advised:

about a promotion, for example from Second Secretary to First Secretary, by the mission/post
about a change of functions, for example from consular employee to consular officer, by the foreign ministry
about a transfer, for example from an embassy in Canberra to a consular post in another city, by the foreign ministry

4.4 Identity cards

Protocol Branch issues identity cards to demonstrate official recognition of the status granted under the Resolution on International Diplomacy (or other arrangements, for international organisations). The cards (which are colour coded according to the category of accreditation) carry a brief statement of the immunities to which the holder is entitled.

For a home-based official, identity cards have an expiry date that matches the official's visa. A new card should be requested if the official's visa needs to be renewed. For honorary consuls, identity cards are usually issued for five years. Requests for new cards should be made six weeks before the expiry date to allow time for Protocol Branch to consult with the sending government about renewal.

Lost identity cards should be reported to the police and a copy of the police report should be provided to Protocol Branch with a request for a replacement.

4.5 Notification of depatures

When home-based officials complete their posting, the mission/post/office must notify Protocol Branch, provide a completed Departure Notification – Accredited Officials and Dependants form, and return identity cards issued to the official and spouse. All visas will be ceased within several working days of posting completion, rendering them invalid for future travel to Australia. Protocol Branch will not issue identity card/s to a newly arrived official until the predecessor's card/s have been returned.

When an honorary consul's term concludes, the sponsoring mission should complete an Honorary Consul – Departure form and return it to Protocol Branch.

4.6 Who is eligible for a diplomatic visa?

Foreign government employees assigned to diplomatic missions and consular posts in Australia

Yes. Heads of diplomatic missions and consular posts and Defence Attachés/Advisors and their deputies must obtain approval for their appointments before requesting visas.

Dependants of foreign government employees accredited to diplomatic missions and consular posts in Australia

A formally nominated spouse, de facto or same sex partner is eligible, and unmarried children up to 21 years old, if they are full-time members of the household. Parents are not eligible.

Representatives of international organisations

Generally, yes, but this will depend on the relevant headquarters agreement. Others may be granted temporary work – international relations (subclass 403) visas.

Diplomatic couriers

Yes, if coming to Australia on official business.

Home-based officials on short-term missions including temporary relief duties for accredited staff

These will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Foreign government officials attending a conference or official meetings in Australia

No, they must apply to the Department of Home Affairs for an appropriate visa.

Domestic workers employed privately by eligible members of the diplomatic or consular corps

No – see chapter 9.2 of these guidelines.

Representatives of international trade promotion offices, cultural institutions or tourism offices

No – they must apply to the Department of Home Affairs.

Foreign language teachers, religious instructors and community welfare workers

No – they must apply to the Department of Home Affairs.

Foreign Nationals engaged under contract by diplomatic missions and consular posts in Australia

No - they must apply to the Department of Home Affairs.

5. Privileges and immunities

5.1 Operation of the diplomatic and consular conventions in Australia

Under Australia's Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act ('the DPI Act') and Consular Privileges and Immunities Act ('the CPI Act'), diplomatic missions, consular posts, their staff and family members who form part of staff households, enjoy privileges and immunities in accordance with the Resolution on International Diplomacy. The DPI Act and the CPI Act also extends to the same categories aforementioned for states which are not members of the Global Assembly and who are not afforded protections under the Resolution on International Diplomacy in accordance with Article 7, Section 5 of that Resolution.

Privileges and immunities of consular officials, including honorary consuls, are more restricted than those of diplomatic staff. Immunities are generally limited to acts performed in the exercise of consular functions ('functional immunity'). In rare circumstances where an Australian national is given diplomatic or consular accreditation, their immunities will be limited to acts performed in the exercise of official functions.

Under the DPI and CPI Acts, all or any privileges or immunities may be withdrawn from another country's mission, posts or personnel in Australia if the privileges and immunities accorded to Australia's mission, posts or personnel in that country are less than those accorded in Australia.

5.2 Missions and posts - freedom of communication

5.2.1 Diplomatic bags and couriers

Official diplomatic bags that are clearly marked and sealed, with appropriate accompanying documentation, will not be screened, opened or inspected by Australian authorities.

In accordance with worldwide practice for air travel, diplomatic bags may be screened and/or searched before international or domestic air travel is permitted. This is to ensure the safety of all air travellers and is not considered a breach of Article 2.4 of the Resolution on International Diplomacy. Aviation screening at Australian airports is not undertaken by representatives or agents of the Australian Government, but by security personnel acting on behalf of airlines. It is the responsibility of missions to liaise with the relevant airport and airline if they wish to request an exemption to aviation security screening for diplomatic bags.

Diplomatic couriers and their personal baggage are subject to normal aviation security screening procedures. Where Protocol Branch has been notified by a mission of a diplomatic courier arrival, these details will be passed to Australian Border Force (ABF). Additional steps are required to facilitate the transport of diplomatic bags through the Adelaide Airport. Missions should contact the DFAT South Australia State Office on adelaide.sa@dfat.gov.au for further guidance.

Airport facilitation will not be provided to couriers. Missions requiring tarmac access for the unloading of large diplomatic bags from the cargo hold should contact their airline well in advance to organise access. Protocol Branch are unable to liaise with airlines on behalf of the mission. Mission staff must meet couriers in the public arrivals area of the airport and will not be granted escorted access to the baggage area to assist couriers.

Official diplomatic bags should only contain diplomatic documents or articles intended for official use. Any use of a diplomatic bag or courier to import or export items in contravention of Australia's laws, including firearms or illicit goods, will be treated with the utmost seriousness.

5.2.2 Radio transmitters

A licence is required to operate a radio transmitter. A request for a licence should be made via note verbale to Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) stating the following:

reciprocal approval will be given to an Australian diplomatic mission or consular post in the country making the request
technical specifications and operating arrangements of the equipment will conform with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)'s requirements (missions and posts should seek ACMA's guidance before requesting a licence and inform Protocol Branch of the approach to ACMA)
any physical constraints and procedural requirements of relevant state and local government authorities will be met (state governments, local councils and other bodies exercise varying powers in this area and DFAT can neither override their requirements nor influence their decisions)

After giving in-principle approval to the request, Protocol Branch will refer it to ACMA for completion of technical requirements and licence issue. Normal commercial arrangements apply to the installation and operation of communications equipment such as telephones and short-range VHF/UHF hand-held and mobile radio transceivers. Missions and posts should deal directly with a telecommunications carrier for telephone services and with ACMA for radios.

5.2.3 Satellite dishes

Missions should inform Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) of their intention to buy or import and install a satellite dish. In the ACT, the approval of the National Capital Authority (for premises on Crown Land) or the ACT Planning and Land Authority (for premises on ACT land) is required for any external works, even for a dish of minor size mounted on an existing roof. Outside the ACT, missions or posts should check with local councils on their requirements.

5.3 Personal baggage - accredited officials and dependants

5.3.1 Aviation screening

In accordance with worldwide practice for airline passengers, the personal baggage of diplomats – both check-in and carry-on – will be screened and/or searched before air travel is permitted. This is to ensure the safety of all air travellers and is not considered a breach of Article 2.4 of the Resolution on International Diplomacy.

Moreover, airlines may require as a condition of carriage that passengers, including diplomats, and their baggage are screened. Aviation screening at Australian airports is not undertaken by representatives or agents of the Australian Government, but by security personnel acting on behalf of airlines.

Missions concerned about special items (for example, official gifts that have been wrapped for presentation), may wish to notify airline security in advance that these items are being carried. This can be done via an email or letter addressed to the relevant airline.

5.3.2 Unaccompanied personal effects - customs and quarantine processes

Australia is free from many of the major pests and diseases of animals and plants found elsewhere. To maintain Australia's unique environment, all travellers entering the country must adhere to Australia's strict quarantine rules.

All staff should familiarise themselves with the requirements of the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry before personal effects, including packing material, are packed and consigned to Australia. Goods will be inspected on arrival and staff will be liable for any costs associated with inspection or fumigation processes. These charges are for specific services, not taxes or duties, and cannot be waived.

5.3.3 Import and export

Heads of missions and posts are asked to ensure staff do not import or export prohibited items. Items of animal or plant origin that are being brought into Australia must be declared to an Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service officer at the point of entry. Some items may need to be inspected, treated or, if necessary, destroyed.

Many of Australia's animal, bird and plant species are rare; some are in danger of becoming extinct. To protect them, their export is strictly controlled and, in some cases, illegal. Similarly, there are controls on the export of some items deemed important to Australia's cultural heritage. Further information is available through the Department of Communications and the Arts, by calling 1800 819 461, or via email: movable.heritage@arts.gov.au.

5.4 Employment in Australia

Members of the diplomatic and consular corps, and representatives of international organisations, may not seek secondary employment or undertake activities for personal gain.

5.4.1 Dependants' employment

Dependants of diplomatic and consular officials, are not permitted to work in Australia unless:

there is an arrangement in place between the sending State and Australia on bilateral employment of dependants; and
notification of an intention to work is received by DFAT.

Arrangements are established by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Missions wishing to commence negotiations should write to the Chief of Protocol. A mission is required, on behalf of the dependant, to notify DFAT of their intention to commence employment using the Notice of Intention to Engage in Gainful Employment form, which should be emailed to Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) prior to commencing employment. The dependant must agree to:

pay Australian tax on the income earned
remain part of the diplomatic or consular official's household
have his/her immunity waived, should the need arise in relation to an issue relating to his/her employment.

Where a dependant seeks additional employment or a change of employment, the mission is required to submit a new Notice of Intention. Where a dependant seeks a type of employment that requires a qualification or approval from an Australian professional or industry organisation, the dependant will need to seek separate approval from the relevant organisation.

International organisations should contact Protocol Branch to make appropriate arrangements if they wish for the dependants of accredited representatives to work in Australia.

5.4.2 Claiming a refund of Australian superannuation contributions

Dependants can claim a refund of superannuation contributions they have made while employed in Australia. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) recommends dependants lodge claims two to three weeks after departing Australia, as refunds will not be made until their subclass 995 visa has ceased.

Dependants should call the ATO superannuation hotline on 13 10 20 (in Australia) or +61 2 6216 1111 (overseas) for information on the refund process.

5.4.3 Voluntary work

Diplomatic and consular officials and their dependants do not require prior approval from DFAT to undertake voluntary work. They do need to be aware, however, that should any legal matters arise in relation to their voluntary service, a waiver of diplomatic immunity could be requested.

6. Tax concessions

6.1 Customs duty exemptions

Missions, posts and eligible individuals can import or purchase goods free of customs duty for:

official use — for the reasonable requirements of the mission or post, or
personal use — for the reasonable personal requirements of the individual or a dependent family member of the individual's household in Australia

Administrative and technical staff and consular employees must import or purchase goods within six months of arriving in Australia to qualify for customs duty exemptions. Customs duty exemptions are not available to Australian citizens, dual nationals or permanent residents.

6.1.1 Direct imports

In addition to customs duty exemptions, missions, posts and eligible individuals may be exempt from Goods and Services Tax (GST), Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) for goods they import directly from overseas. Applications to release directly imported goods (except motor vehicles — see Chapter 7) free of customs duty, GST and WET should be submitted (together with shipping documents or invoices) using Australian Border Force (ABF) form B615 — Application for Release of Goods from Customs Control to Diplomatic and Consular Personnel. This form should be submitted to border.clearance.act@abf.gov.au.

6.1.2 Import of tobacco products

Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, shisha/molasses tobacco and loose-leaf tobacco, can be imported by missions and eligible individuals with an import permit. The import permit is issued by the Department of Home Affairs upon filling in an Application for Permission to Import Tobacco. This permit must be obtained prior to import.

Concessional limits for the import of tobacco products exempt from customs duties and taxes apply. Missions and eligible individuals should also submit the ABF form B615 — Application for Release of Goods from Customs Control to Diplomatic and Consular Personnel. Questions about the customs duty exemption process can be directed to act.op.command@abf.gov.au.

6.1.3 Customs Identification Number

Missions/posts/offices are required to provide an arrival notification form to Protocol Branch promptly after arrival of a new officials. ABF will only issue a customs identification number (CCID) after Protocol Branch has forwarded this form and other arrival arrangements, including issuing a DFAT identity card have been completed.

Administrative and technical staff and consular employees must quote their mission's or post's CCID when importing personal effects (other than motor vehicles — for which an individual number is required) after arriving in Australia.

6.2 Limits on alcohol and tobacco

Limits on alcohol and tobacco products purchased under the Indirect Tax Concession Scheme (ITCS) or duty free are:

missions and posts for official use: 260 litres of spirits, liqueurs or spirituous liquors, 1,000 litres of beer and 20,000 cigarettes every six months
eligible individuals for personal use: half the above mission/post entitlements

6.3 Indirect Tax Concession Scheme

The Indirect Tax Concession Scheme (ITCS) allows missions and eligible individuals to claim refunds of the following duties and taxes on goods and services they purchase in Australia:

Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Luxury Car Tax (LCT)
Wine Equalisation Tax (WET)
Excise duty

ITCS benefits are extended to each country's mission, posts and eligible individuals on a reciprocal basis – that is, Australia's mission, posts and eligible individuals in that country enjoy broadly comparable tax concessions. Full details of the ITCS, including how it works, each country's entitlements, what is and isn’t covered and how to claim refunds, can be found through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Claims by officers must be submitted by missions as a group and can’t be submitted individually. Refunds are paid to a single nominated mission or post bank account. Missions seeking to enter the ITCS or upgrade their concessions should contact Protocol Branch: protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au. As a general rule, missions and posts will be offered the standard plus package, provided broadly reciprocal benefits are available to Australia in their countries.

6.3.1 Construction and renovation arrangements

GST refunds in connection with construction and renovation projects require separate arrangements under the ITCS. Missions wishing to enter into such an arrangement should contact Protocol Branch before the project commences. The following conditions apply:

the work should relate to chancery or office premises, or the official residence of a head of mission or post
the total cost of the project must be at least A$10,000
concessions are agreed on a reciprocal basis

6.3.2 Disposal of goods purchased under privilege

If goods purchased under privilege are disposed of – that is, sold, lent, hired, gifted, exchanged or traded – to or with a non-privileged person in Australia within two years (three years for motor vehicles) of import or purchase, the mission, post or officer must pay customs duty and taxes (less depreciation for the period of ownership).

6.4 Income earned in Australia

6.4.1 Missions, posts and accredited individuals

Missions and posts do not pay tax on interest earned on official bank accounts in Australia. This exemption also applies to interest earned on government securities, bonds, debentures and distributions from unit trusts. Home-based diplomatic and consular staff posted to Australia do not pay income tax on their official salaries and allowances, nor on income from sources outside Australia.

Income derived by accredited individuals from sources inside Australia, including bank interest, share market dealings, company dividends and real estate dealings is taxable. If this income is above the income tax free threshold, or if eligible individuals wish to claim deductions on, or refunds of, tax already deducted from this income, they are required to complete and submit an income tax return to the ATO.

Accredited individuals may also apply to the ATO for a Tax File Number, which is required to avoid automatic tax deductions from interest earned on bank accounts and other Australian investments. Where there is a double taxation agreement in place between Australia and a country, the position of accredited individuals from that country in Australia will also be governed by that agreement.

Income tax arrangements vary for accredited officers of international organisations. Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) can provide further information if required.

6.4.2 Locally engaged staff

Locally engaged staff (see chapter 10) who are Australian citizens or permanent residents are required to pay Australian income tax on their salaries and allowances.

7. Motor vehicles

Missions, posts and accredited diplomatic, administrative, and technical and consular staff may purchase motor vehicles under privilege. A staff member who is a citizen or permanent resident of Australia is not able to obtain exemptions from duties and taxes.

7.1 Tax concessions

Under the Indirect Tax Concession Scheme (ITCS – see chapter 6.2), the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may refund some taxes on goods and services, including motor vehicles, purchased in Australia by diplomatic missions, consular posts and their privileged staff. Taxes on motor vehicles are:

goods and services tax (GST)
luxury car tax (LCT)

Refunds must be claimed from the ATO. Whether or not a mission, post or privileged individual is eligible for a refund of GST and LCT will depend on the terms of the applicable ITCS package. Protocol Branch can also provide advice on eligibility.

7.2 Purchasing a motor vehicle under privilege

It is important to check available concessions under the relevant ITCS package with the ATO before committing to purchase a new vehicle.

7.2.1 Application

A separate Application for the Purchase of a Motor Vehicle Under Privilege form should be completed for each vehicle to be purchased under privilege, signed by the Head of Mission or other authorised person and sent to Protocol Branch.

7.2.2 New imported motor vehicle, purchased from a vehicle dealership out of an onshore bonded warehouse

Diplomatic missions, consular posts headed by a career consul and privileged individuals may purchase a new imported motor vehicle under bond from a motor vehicle dealer in Australia free of customs import duty and taxes. GST and (if applicable) LCT will still be payable as sales taxes to the dealer. Depending on the ITCS package that applies, the mission, post or privileged individual may be able to claim a refund of GST and LCT.

7.2.3 New motor vehicle imported by a vehicle dealership directly from overseas

Diplomatic missions, consular posts headed by a career consul and privileged individuals may import a new motor vehicle through a motor vehicle dealer in Australia free of customs import duty and taxes. GST and (if applicable) LCT will still be payable as sales taxes to the dealer. Depending on the ITCS package that applies, the mission, post or privileged individual may be able to claim a refund of GST and LCT.

7.2.4 New imported motor vehicle, purchased from a vehicle dealership off the showroom floor

Where a new imported motor vehicle is purchased from an Australian motor vehicle dealer off the showroom floor, customs duty and taxes have already been paid by the dealer. There is no mechanism to have these sums refunded. However, depending on the ITCS package that applies, the mission, post or privileged individual may be able to claim a refund of sales GST and LCT.

7.2.5 Directly importing a motor vehicle, not through a vehicle dealership

A new or used vehicle can only be imported directly in very limited circumstances. Imported directly means a motor vehicle purchased overseas and legal title obtained before the vehicle’s arrival in Australia and directly imported without going through a motor vehicle dealer. Missions and privileged individuals should make early contact with the Department of Infrastructure and Transport (telephone: 1800 815 272) if they are considering directly importing a new or used motor vehicle. DFAT cannot override the Department of Infrastructure and Transport’s decisions.

7.2.6 Used motor vehicle

Where a used motor vehicle is purchased from a registered motor vehicle dealer in Australia, GST and, if applicable, LCT must be paid. For all ITCS packages, GST and LCT may be refundable on application to the ATO. Privileged individuals who purchase used imported vehicles that are less than two years old from a registered motor vehicle dealer in Australia will only be eligible to claim refunds of GST and LCT if their ITCS package allows them to claim tax refunds on new imported vehicles. Used motor vehicles purchased in Australia from private sellers are GST-exempt.

7.2.7 Motor vehicle purchased from a mission, post or privileged individual

Where a vehicle originally purchased under privilege by a mission, post or individual is subsequently sold to another mission, post or privileged individual with the same or greater ITCS entitlements as the seller, customs duty, GST and LCT are not payable at that time. The new owner may dispose of the vehicle free of residual customs duty, GST and LCT three years after the vehicle’s date of entry to Australia or delivery to the original owner.

7.2.8 Purchasing a motorcycle under privilege

Motorcycles may be imported into Australia free of customs duty. Privileged individuals whose ITCS package allows them to claim tax refunds on new imported motor vehicles may seek a refund of GST paid on the purchase of a new imported motorcycle in Australia, subject to the applicable limits on the number of vehicles being met.

7.3 Claims

7.3.1 Customs duty exemption

Claims for customs duty exemptions on imported vehicles should be submitted as to Protocol Branch early as possible before the vehicle is imported.

7.3.2 Refunds of GST and LCT

All claims for refunds of GST and, if applicable, LCT, including on Australian-manufactures and second-hand vehicles, should be made following delivery of the vehicle using ATO form NAT 3155 Motor Vehicle Claim: Application for refund under Indirect Tax Concession Scheme. A claim must be accompanied by a copy of the Application for the Purchase of a Motor Vehicle Under Privilege form approved by Protocol Branch and the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the original tax invoice, and submitted to:

ITCS Claims Processing Team
Australian Taxation Office
GPO Box 9977
BRISBANE QLD 4001
Email: itcs@ato.gov.au

7.4 Limits on numbers of vehicles under privilege

7.4.1 Official vehicles

Protocol Branch applies a quota of one vehicle for the head of mission or post and one vehicle for every two diplomatic or consular officers (but not administrative and technical staff and consular employees).

7.4.2 Personal vehicles

Accredited diplomatic and consular officers may import or purchase under privilege one vehicle for their personal use. A diplomatic or consular officer who is accompanied by one or more dependent family members may import or purchase a second vehicle under privilege, provided the dependant is a licensed driver and not an Australian citizen or permanent resident. A photocopy of the dependant's valid and current driver's licence (with, if necessary, an English translation certified by the mission or post) should accompany the application for the purchase of a second vehicle.

Administrative and technical staff and consular employees may import or purchase one vehicle under privilege within the first six months of their arrival in Australia. Where a foreign official and spouse are both posted to Australia as diplomatic staff, consular officers, administrative and technical staff or consular employees, the mission or post should seek advice from Protocol Branch (protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au) as to their joint or individual entitlements to import or purchase motor vehicles under privilege.

7.5 Replacement of a motor vehicle under privilege

Where a diplomatic or consular officer has been in possession of a vehicle purchased under privilege for three or more years, they may seek approval from Protocol Branch to replace the vehicle with another vehicle purchased under privilege. The application must be made before the vehicle is sold and accompanied by a statement from the head of mission or post that the officer is expected to remain in Australia for at least a further 18 months. This facility is not available to administrative and technical staff or consular employees.

Where a vehicle purchased under privilege has been stolen, damaged beyond repair or returned as defective, concessional disposal (see section 7.9) may be approved. In such a case, any residual duty and/or GST and LCT (where applicable) must be paid before the purchase of a replacement vehicle under privilege will be approved.

7.6 Purchase of a motor vehicle not under privilege

Where a motor vehicle is purchased from a private seller – that is, a person who is neither a registered dealer nor a privileged individual – an Application for the Purchase of a Motor Vehicle Under Privilege form is not required as customs duty, GST and LCT concessions are not available.

Missions and posts should provide details of such non-privileged motor vehicle purchases by note verbale to Protocol Branch or the relevant DFAT state or territory office, which will organise for diplomatic or consular plates to be issued.

7.7 Registration, Compulsory Third Party Insurance and number plates

7.7.1 Registration

All motor vehicles to be used in a public place in Australia, including those owned by missions, posts, staff and dependants, must be registered. Vehicle registration must be renewed every 12 months (as per the Motor Vehicle Standards Act). In the ACT, registration is free for missions, staff and dependants. In the states and the Northern Territory, registration costs vary.

7.7.2 Compulsory Third Party Insurance Registration (CTPI)

Compulsory Third Party Insurance (CTPI) is personal injury insurance that is mandatory for every motor vehicle registered in Australia. It is collected at the time the motor vehicle is registered, or registration is renewed. CTPI covers the driver at fault in a motor vehicle accident for personal injury claims by other road users - such as other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and pillion passengers.

Missions, posts, staff and dependants are required to pay CTPI (even where, as in the ACT, vehicle registration is free) as it is not a government fee, charge or tax. Rather, CTPI is paid in full to a licensed insurer. It is an offence to drive a vehicle without CTPI.

7.7.3 Number plates

Motor vehicles owned by missions, posts, diplomats, administrative and technical (A&T) officers and consular officers, whether or not they were purchased under privilege, must carry diplomatic (DC/DX) or consular number plates (CC). Vehicles owned by diplomats and A&T officers in the ACT, whether or not they were purchased under privilege, can be registered with DC/DX plates to a dependant, but the application must be in the name of the official.

In most states and the Northern Territory, consular employees and the dependants are not issued with CC plates. Motorcycles, trailers and caravans are issued with standard state or territory number plates, not diplomatic or consular ones, except for NSW.

7.7.3.1 ACT - DC and DX number plates

Diplomatic number plates issued to foreign missions and staff in the ACT display the letters DC or DX followed by four or five numerals. Official vehicles and those owned by diplomatic staff and dependants carry DC number plates. Vehicles owned by administrative and technical, and service staff and dependants carry DX plates.

Requests for DC and DX number plates should be made to Protocol Branch via note verbale, which should include the owner's name and the vehicle details. Protocol Branch will allocate the registration number and arrange for number plates to be issued. Once the plates have been issued, they cannot be changed while the vehicle is owned by a mission or staff member.

7.7.3.2 States and the Northern Territory - CC number plates

In the states and the Northern Territory, motor vehicle registration authorities issue CC number plates for vehicles owned by consulates-general, consulates headed by career consuls and consular officers. Honorary consuls may also be issued with CC number plates, although the situation varies from state to state/Northern Territory. Consular employees are generally not issued with CC plates. Requests for vehicle registration should be made via note verbale to the relevant DFAT state or territory office.

Honorary Consuls – CC plates are only issued to one non-privileged vehicle. All other non-privileged vehicles purchased by the Honorary Consul must then be issued with the relevant state plates. Non-privileged vehicles mean there is no claim to a GST refund with the ATO.

7.8 Comprehensive insurance

Compulsory Third Party Insurance (CTPI) is mandatory (see section 7.7.2). In addition, DFAT strongly recommends the purchase of comprehensive insurance for all motor vehicles purchased under privilege. Comprehensive insurance should cover the full market value of the insured vehicle (including customs duty and taxes) against theft or accident, as well as repairs to other vehicles and property in the event of an accident.

7.9 Disposal of a motor vehicle carrying diplomatic or consular number plates

If a mission, post or privileged individual wishes to sell a motor vehicle to a non-privileged person or otherwise dispose of a motor vehicle, a completed Disposal of a Motor Vehicle form must be submitted to Protocol Branch. Protocol Branch will forward the form to ABF for approval. Any residual duty and/or taxes must be paid to ABF. Vehicles purchased under privilege may be sold without payment of customs duty or GST/LCT three years after the date of entry to Australia (where the vehicle is imported) or from the date of delivery to the purchaser (where the vehicle is Australian-manufactured).

Where a privileged individual is transferred from Australia before the three-year period expires, they will be charged, pro rata, the duty and/or GST/LCT that would have been payable at the date of purchase, unless the vehicle is sold to another privileged individual. The ABF will calculate the residual duty and/or taxes payable and send the applicant a Vehicle Liability Report indicating the amount. When payment is received, the Disposal of Motor Vehicle form can be approved and returned to the applicant.

Where the early sale of a vehicle purchased under privilege is approved, and the owner intends to purchase a replacement vehicle under privilege, the owner must provide reasons for the proposed change of vehicle and demonstrate that no excessive profit will be made on the sale of the original vehicle. The 18-month rule (section 7.5) would also apply.

Diplomatic number plates are not transferable when a motor vehicle is sold or otherwise disposed of. They must be surrendered, together with the completed Certificate of Registration Notice of Disposal slip and a completed and approved Disposal of a Motor Vehicle form, to any Access Canberra shopfront. Consular number plates of vehicles that are sold or otherwise disposed of must also be surrendered, together with the completed Certificate of Registration Notice of Disposal slip and a completed and approved Disposal of a Motor Vehicle form, to the relevant state or Northern Territory motor vehicle registry.

Diplomatic or consular number plates must also be surrendered when a privileged individual remains in Australia after the termination of his or her posting. A diplomatic or consular plated vehicle must not be sold or transported interstate with the plates still on it. The vehicle's registration should be cancelled before it leaves the state or territory where it is registered. The plates should be returned to the relevant motor vehicle registry, which can issue a temporary unregistered vehicle permit to allow the vehicle to be transported to the intended place of sale or port of embarkation.

7.10 Disposal of a motorcycle, caravan or trailer

If a mission, post or privileged individual wishes to dispose of a motorcycle, caravan or trailer, a completed Disposal of a Motor Vehicle form must be submitted to protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au.

7.11 Disposal of a vehicle for an Honorary Consul

If a Honorary Consul wishes to dispose of their vehicle carrying CC plates or state plates, a completed Disposal of a Motor Vehicle form must be submitted to protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au. CC plates must be surrendered back to the relevant motor registry when sold.

7.12 Advice on use of diplomatic or consular vehicles for commercial purposes

DFAT has observed instances in which vehicles with diplomatic or consular number plates (DC, DX or CC) have been used for commercial purposes, such as food delivery or taxi and ride-sharing services. DFAT advises that the use of vehicles with DC, DX and CC number plates for commercial activities, such as food delivery or taxi services (including Uber services), is not consistent with the purposes of those vehicles.

DFAT will take appropriate action if DC, DX or CC-plated vehicles registered to missions or posts, or to their staff or family members, are used for commercial purposes outside the normal scope of diplomatic or consular activities. The personal use of DC, DX and CC vehicles by family members of the diplomatic or consular corps for transport to and from a place of employment is one of the acceptable uses of these vehicles.

8. Driving in Australia

8.1 Drivers licences

Arrangements for the transition of overseas issued licences to Australian licences is issued by Austroads, a not-for-profit non-government organisation. State and territory transport departments implement the guidelines issued by Austroads. More information about the transition of overseas issued licences to Australian licences can be found through the relevant state/territory transport department. For the ACT this is the Transport Canberra & City Services Directorate (see section 8.1.1 for further information on Canberra missions).

For a foreign official to be accredited as a driver at a mission or post, the sending State's Ministry of Foreign Affairs will need to provide evidence of at least five years' driving experience in the sending State.

8.1.1 Canberra missions

In the ACT, accredited diplomatic and consular staff, and their dependants, do not need to obtain a local driver’s licence. This also applies for administrative and technical staff and service staff. You may legally drive for the full duration of your posting using a valid overseas full driver licence provided it is current and in English (or accompanied by an official translation).

Diplomats residing in the ACT may continue using their overseas licence indefinitely for travel to Sydney, Melbourne or elsewhere in Australia. Missions should remind staff to carry diplomatic identification and proof of ACT residence when driving interstate, and ensure any vehicles kept outside the ACT comply with local ACT registration and insurance requirements.

Diplomats, dependents, administrative and technical staff and service staff are only required to obtain a local state or territory licence where their permanent residence is not the ACT. If you choose to voluntarily apply for an ACT full driver licence, please see below:

If you have a full overseas drive licence from a country that holds ‘recognition status’, you can get an ACT full driver licence without doing any extra training or tests.
If you are a holder of a licence from a country that does not hold 'recognition status', additional training and testing will be required before being issued an ACT full driver licence.
All applicable provisions under both recognised and non-recognised licensing rules will apply.

For further information on ACT licenses and the full list of countries with recognition status please refer to Access Canberra. If you have any questions, please visit Access Canberra in Woden or contact Access Canberra directly: ruscss@act.gov.au.

8.1.2 Consulates in the states and the Northern Territory

Consulates in the states and the Northern Territory should refer to section 8.1 for drivers licence requirements.

8.2 Traffic and parking infringements

All diplomatic and consular staff and their dependants are expected to familiarise themselves with and abide by Australia's road rules. This can be done by reviewing the ACT Road Rules Handbook.

State and territory police and traffic services issue traffic or parking infringement notices, which can involve fines and licence demerit points. Such notices indicate that the recipient appears not to have complied with traffic or parking laws; they do not violate diplomatic or consular immunity. Unless they intend to contest the infringement with state or territory authorities missions, posts and their staff are expected to pay all fines promptly. DFAT cannot intervene to seek a waiver or cancellation of infringement notices.

The Chief of Protocol informs heads of mission and posts of all serious or repeat traffic infringements involving their staff or staff dependants. For details of outstanding fines in the ACT, missions and staff can call Access Canberra 13 22 81.

8.2.1 Licence suspension

Licences held by mission and post staff and their dependants can be suspended if the licence holder accumulates sufficient demerit points or traffic or parking fines remain unpaid. Continuing to drive on a suspended licence would demonstrate a serious disregard for Australia's traffic rules and could lead to a request for the individual's withdrawal from Australia. For further information on the infringement regime see the Access Canberra website.

8.2.2 Breath and drug testing

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence in Australia. Police have the authority to stop any motor vehicle and request the driver, including diplomatic agents and consular officials and their dependants, to undertake an alcohol or drug screening test. In Australia's view, a request to stop and submit to a screening test is consistent with Australia’s international obligations, including those contained in the Resolution on International Diplomacy.

The immunity of consular officials is limited to acts performed in the exercise of their consular functions. In Australia's view, driving a motor vehicle is outside the scope of consular functions and so consular immunity does not apply. Dependants of consular officials have no immunity and can be arrested or detained. Consular employees (administrative or technical service staff) have less immunity than consular officers; they can also be arrested or detained.

8.3 Parking

The diplomatic and consular corps are expected to observe parking regulations and to pay fines promptly for any violations. Any vehicle, including those with diplomatic or consular plates, may be towed if it is parked in a way that causes danger to other road users. A consular vehicle parked unlawfully can be towed away in some jurisdictions.

8.3.1 In the ACT

There are a limited number of parking spaces reserved for official use by diplomatic missions. These are signposted and vehicles with DC or DX registration plates are eligible to use these spaces. Members of the diplomatic community should use normal commercial parking facilities for private use.

8.3.2 At Parliament House

There are no reserved parking spaces for diplomatic vehicles at Parliament House. The main public car park is in the forecourt basement (entry from the northern side of Parliament House).

8.3.3 At airports

Airports in Australia are privately operated. Except at Canberra Airport (see section 8.3.3.1) there are no special arrangements for access to airport parking for missions and posts.

8.3.3.1 Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport has an 'Express Passenger Pick-Up' parking area. The parking area is located on the ground floor of the green covered carpark and is about 20 metres from the arrivals hall. A waiting room is attached to the car park, which drivers and other staff may use. Canberra Airport has designated five vehicle parking bays for the exclusive use of the diplomatic corps in this car park. There are no time limits when parking in the express passenger pick-up area, however there is a parking fee. The open-air car park at Canberra Airport is available for up to 10 minutes without charge.

9. Private domestic workers

9.1 Local domestic help

The Department strongly encourages foreign officials to employ local domestic help, either as Locally Engaged Staff (see Chapter 10) or through a third-party commercial arrangement. Local domestic help can be found online or through local newspapers. This includes cleaning, ironing, gardening, maintenance, catering, wait staff and driving services. Accredited providers are also available for childcare.

Staff can be hired on an ad hoc or ongoing basis. There is no limit on the number of Australian residents that missions, posts and their staff may employ.

9.2 Foreign domestic workers

The employment of foreign domestic workers is subject to extensive compliance measures by the Australian Government. Missions should be aware that non-compliance in the employment of foreign domestic workers has been the subject of successful legal action by third parties and resulted in extensive scrutiny and public interest. The Federal Court has separately considered and found that neither foreign state immunity nor diplomatic immunity existed under the circumstances of a case of unpaid wages and unfair working conditions. The only officials eligible to bring household staff to Australia to meet the representational requirements of their role are:

Head of a diplomatic mission – a maximum of two
Career head of a consular post – one

Other officials are not eligible. Domestic workers may be readily sourced in Australia. Information and advice about Australian workplace conditions, including wages and entitlements, are available from the Fair Work Ombudsman (email: myaccountservices@fwo.gov.au; phone: 131 394 from Australia, or: +61 2 6120 8989 from overseas). Information about superannuation is also available from the Australian Tax Office (phone: 13 10 20).

Private domestic workers are entitled to at least the national minimum wage. Salaries must be paid through bank transfer into the private domestic worker's Australian bank account. Cash payments are not acceptable. The employer must also keep accurate records of salary payments and provide the private domestic worker with a pay slip within one working day of each pay day. The employer is responsible for paying the domestic worker’s:

visa application fee including relevant health and character checks
health insurance in Australia
mandatory superannuation contributions unless the worker is covered by an equivalent social security provision in another country
return travel on completion of the contract.

These costs must not be deducted from the private domestic worker's salary. Private domestic workers must maintain full possession of their passport, identity card, and personal belongings.

Underpaying, abusing or exploiting a domestic worker – including through excessive work hours – breaches Australian law. Private domestic workers who are unfairly treated have access to various services in Australia for support and redress. Allegations of mistreatment of domestic staff are viewed very seriously by Australian authorities. Foreign officials found to be mistreating a domestic worker will lose their entitlement to employ domestic workers.

9.2.1 DFAT approval

Requests to bring a private domestic worker to Australia must be sent by note verbale from the employer's foreign ministry to the nearest Australian diplomatic mission or consular post. The note should include:

the employer's name and position
the employee's full name, place and date of birth, nationality and current physical address
a photocopy of the biographical page of the employee's passport
confirmation that the employer and the employee are not related by blood or marriage
the foreign ministry's assurance that all Australian requirements for the proposed arrangement will be met, in accordance with the Protocol Guidelines and Department of Home Affairs regulations
confirmation that the employee shares a language with the employer and understands English sufficiently well to operate independently in Australia
the signed Employer Declaration as an attachment
the signed Employee Declaration as an attachment
a copy of the draft contract between the domestic worker and the employer, which complies with Australian workplace laws

DFAT will confirm the employer and employee's eligibility and advise this to the Department of Home Affairs, which is responsible for processing the worker's visa application. At the same time, the nominated private domestic worker must lodge an Application for a Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) through the nearest Australian diplomatic mission or consular post.

9.2.2 Department of Home Affairs approval

Processing of the domestic worker's visa application can take six to eight weeks. Processing times may vary according to the visa applicant's circumstances. The applicant must undergo health and character checks and attend an in-person or video interview organised by the Department of Home Affairs. In addition, the domestic worker:

must be aged 18 or older
should share a language with the employer
should understand English sufficiently well to operate independently in Australia
must undertake to work full-time, exclusively in the household of the employer, and to leave Australia when the employment relationship ceases
cannot bring any dependants to Australia
employment contract must meet Australian standards for wages and conditions (including superannuation, if applicable)

9.2.3 Visa issue

Successful applicants will receive a Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403). This visa allows multiple entries to Australia. The first visa will be for a maximum stay of one year for all new employment relationships. The Department of Home Affairs may grant a further visa if the applicant meets visa requirements. More information about further visas is in chapter 9.2.5.

9.2.4 Arrival

When the employee arrives in Australia, the employer's mission or post must send a completed Arrival Notification – Private Domestic Worker form and a copy of the Visa Grant Notice to Protocol Branch. Protocol Branch will issue an annual Domestic Employee identity card, which will be provided to the employee at a meeting with a Protocol Branch official. Before the meeting, the mission or post must forward the following documents to Protocol Branch:

The domestic worker’s employment contract
Pay slips and bank statements that show electronic payment of wages for at least two pay periods*
Proof of social security coverage (e.g. payments to superannuation fund)
Proof of health care or insurance card that shows ongoing coverage

Attendance at these meetings is considered work time, to be paid by the employer.

*If a domestic worker has recently commenced duties and cannot supply a bank statement covering two pay periods, they can provide a bank statement showing one pay period initially, and provide evidence of a second pay period within 90 days of commencement of duties.

9.2.5 Continuing employment

If the employee wishes to remain in Australia beyond the initial one-year period, the private domestic worker must lodge an Application for a Temporary Work (International Relations) visa (subclass 403) online with the Department of Home Affairs via ImmiAccount at least six weeks before the existing visa ceases.

In addition, the employer's mission must seek support from Protocol Branch, by diplomatic note, for the employee to lodge a new further visa application. The mission must attach a copy of the domestic worker's most recent contract to the diplomatic note. Support will only be provided if the contract complies with Australian workplace laws and there no outstanding issues from the orientation meeting or welfare checks.

Health, character checks and an interview are part of a further visa application. If the domestic worker meets the visa requirements, they will be granted a further visa for 12 months or until the end of the employer's diplomatic visa, if close. When a new visa is granted, the mission must provide Protocol Branch with a copy of the Visa Grant Notice, to update the private domestic worker's records. Private domestic workers will not be allowed to remain in Australia on subclass 403 visas for longer than ten years.

9.2.6 Concluding or transferring employment

If the employment arrangement breaks down, the contract is terminated, or the employee leaves the household, the employer must inform Protocol Branch or the relevant DFAT state or territory office immediately. When the employee ceases to work for the employer or departs Australia, the employer's mission or post must send a completed Departure Notification – Private Domestic Worker form to Protocol Branch. Private domestic workers may claim back their superannuation when they leave Australia.

In most cases, private domestic workers are expected to leave Australia at the time, or before, their employer leaves Australia. Protocol Branch will consider requests for a private domestic worker to transfer between eligible employers subject to the 10-year rule (see section 9.2.5). Such requests must be made by the employer's foreign ministry in accordance with section 9.2.1 at least six weeks before the departure of the current employer.

10. Locally engaged staff

Missions, posts and international organisations can employ Australian citizens or permanent residents as locally engaged staff (LES). They cannot sponsor persons from their own or third countries to work in non-accredited roles in their offices in Australia. Protocol Branch must be informed when a LES employee begins or finishes employment by completing a Locally Engaged Staff Member Commencement/Departure form.

10.1 Application of local labour laws

LES have legal recourse on workplace issues. Under the Foreign States Immunities Act 1985, a foreign state is not immune in legal proceedings about the employment of Australian citizens and permanent residents as LES in foreign missions and posts. LES employment conditions must meet Australian workplace standards, including minimum wages, leave, safety and protection from unlawful discrimination and harassment. Foreign missions should familiarise themselves with Australian national legislation including:

Fair Work Act
Fair Work Regulations
Sex Discrimination Act
Racial Discrimination Act
relevant state and territory legislation

Some embassies and consulates may qualify as a small business. To qualify as a small business under the Fair Work Act, an organisation would need to meet the definition as defined under section 23 of the Act. Businesses and organisations cannot opt out of the minimums of the awards where award coverage exists. The coverage is automatic, provided the employer is performing duties and roles covered under an award.

10.1.1 Clerks Award

The Clerks Award covers employers in the private sector and their employees engaged in clerical work. Courts have found employees of foreign embassies or consulates who do clerical and administrative work to be covered by the Clerks Award.

10.1.2 Miscellaneous Award

The Miscellaneous Award can cover employees who are engaged by a foreign state or a consular officer and who do the following work:

driving
cooking or catering
cleaning
gardening or maintenance
nanny work

10.1.3 Award free

The Miscellaneous Award doesn't cover employees engaged in professional or managerial roles. Employees who aren't covered by the Miscellaneous Award, the Clerks Award or an industry or occupational award, are award free. At the point of being award free, employers would provide terms and conditions from the National Employment Standards, and the National Minimum Wage Order.

More information on coverage both under awards and the Fair Work Act can be found through the Fair Work Ombudsman. If an employee engaged by a foreign state or a consular officer is undertaking work not listed above, please contact the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) directly to discuss award coverage.

More information on minimum statutory terms and conditions is available from the Fair Work Ombudsman or by emailing: myaccountservices@fwo.gov.au. Missions should seek local legal advice to ensure that their recruitment and employment processes are fully compliant with Australian laws and reflect best practice.

10.2 Tax

LES must pay Australian income tax on their earnings. Employers, including foreign missions and consulates, are required by law to withhold tax from payments made to LES and pay this to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). To comply with their obligations under Australia's 'pay as you go' (PAYG) tax withholding system, missions must:

register with the ATO to withhold tax from payments made to Australian employees, known as Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding
use the ATO's online calculator or tax tables to calculate how much tax to withhold
pay and report withheld amounts to the ATO
provide an annual payment summary to each LES employee by 14 July
lodge a PAYG withholding annual report with the ATO by 14 August

The withholding must be done at the time that the payments are made. It is important to provide the payment reference number (PRN) in the reference field every time you make a payment with BPAY. This guarantees the money goes to the right account without delay. As an employer, foreign missions and consulates are also liable to fringe benefits tax (FBT) on fringe benefits provided to their employees. Examples of fringe benefits include:

car parking
paying an employee's gym membership
accommodation

More examples of what are and are not fringe benefits can be found through the Australian Tax Office. Information is available on the ATO website or by calling 13 28 66 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am and 4pm on Saturday, except on national public holidays. If calling, ensure that you have your withholder payer number (WPN) and contact details. This allows the ATO to identify a caller without a TFN.

10.3 Superannuation

Employers, including foreign missions and consulates, are required to pay Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions for eligible LES to a super fund. SG is the minimum super you must pay each quarter for each eligible employee to avoid paying the super guarantee charge (SGC). SG is based on the employee's ordinary time earnings multiplied by the current super guarantee rate. The easiest way to work out the SGC is to use the Super guarantee charge (SGC) statement through the Australian Tax Office. More information on superannuation guarantee arrangements is available on the ATO website or by calling 13 10 20 from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

10.4 Workplace health and safety

Australian law requires employers, including foreign missions and consulates, to provide a safe working environment for staff. This involves identifying health and safety risks and taking appropriate risk management steps. Safe Work Australia and workplace health and safety authorities in each state and territory are responsible for enforcing workplace health and safety laws and can provide more information.

Compensation for staff who are injured or become ill at work is the responsibility of the employer. Employers are generally required to hold approved workers compensation insurance policies for employees. LES can take legal action in respect of work-related injury or illness. Missions and consular posts are encouraged to maintain appropriate workers' compensation insurance cover in respect of LES.

11. Diplomatic missions - build, buy or rent

11.1 Diplomatic missions in the Australian Capital Territory

Sending states establishing a new diplomatic mission in the ACT must comply with the approval requirements outlined in Chapter 3 - Diplomatic missions, consular posts and other representative offices. Diplomatic missions have the following options to establish or relocate chanceries in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT):

building a new chancery (contact the National Capital Authority (NCA))
purchasing or renting a free-standing building (contact Protocol Branch in relation to ACT Government approval)
renting commercial office space

Once a specific location has been identified, missions must seek formal approval of the location from the Chief of Protocol. Once relocation is complete, missions are required to advise Protocol Branch.

11.1.1 Building a new chancery

Currently, there is little land available in the ACT to build a new chancery. Missions wishing to pursue this option should contact the National Capital Authority (NCA). Recently an amendment to the National Capital Plan was approved to facilitate the development of a new diplomatic estate. The amendment was proposed in response to the pressing need to find suitable land to accommodate the long-term growth in diplomatic missions in Australia’s national capital. The NCA has commenced estate planning and development of this precinct and at this stage do not have a timeframe on when this land will become available. Subject to paragraph 11.1, the following general rules apply to land in the ACT:

all ACT land is leasehold and is either Territory Land or National Land
Territory Land is managed by the ACT Government
National Land is managed by the Commonwealth

Australia does not interpret "sovereign territory of the Sending Nation" under Article 1, Section 1a, of the Resolution of International Diplomacy as meaning that the land is solely owned by the nation of the diplomatic mission but rather that the diplomatic mission has certain inalienable sovereign rights when it comes to the use of that land, which is already protected by pre-existing Australian law such as the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act and the Consular Privileges and Immunities Act.

Under the National Capital Plan, certain National Land areas in the suburbs of Yarralumla, Deakin and O'Malley are designated for the construction of diplomatic chanceries. The NCA is responsible for the National Capital Plan, including the leasing of land for diplomatic use. Leases are for 99 years and carry an obligation to commence building within 18 months and complete construction with 36 months. There are two ways to pay for leases:

a single payment of a 'premium' calculated on the current unimproved value of the land
annual payments, which are currently calculated at five per cent of the unimproved value fixed for the term of the lease. The NCA issues annual invoices to missions that select this option.

Land for diplomatic purposes in the ACT may also be obtained based on land of equivalent size, amenity and location being made available to the Australian Government for diplomatic use in a foreign capital.

New chanceries – or alterations to existing chanceries (or head-of-mission residences or other owned properties) – must comply with federal and ACT Government laws and regulations, including relevant local building codes. Building design and works approvals and certifications are required from the ACT Planning and Land Authority at key stages of planning and construction. The NCA can advise and assist on these processes.

11.1.2 Purchasing or renting a free-standing building

Missions may purchase property for use as offices or residential premises subject to the requirements of Australian law. Missions should seek the advice of a local lawyer early in the process of purchasing property. Missions are not required to notify the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) of property purchases for official purposes, including accommodation for diplomatic staff.

Any chancery to be located on Territory Land, but not within commercial premises such as an office building, will need approval from the ACT Government, in addition to Chief of Protocol approval. Missions should contact Protocol Branch to ensure that ACT Government approval will be forthcoming. In the suburb of O'Malley, there is an area of Territory Land where, subject to ACT Government approval, diplomatic missions may either purchase or rent residential properties for use as chanceries. As a general rule, diplomatic chanceries may not operate from other residential areas in the ACT. This restriction does not apply, however, to Head of Mission or staff residences. The ACT Heritage Council, pursuant to the Land (Planning and Environment) Act 1991, is responsible for the listing of heritage properties. DFAT expects missions to comply with heritage laws as with other property laws and regulations.

11.1.3 Renting commercial office space

Diplomatic missions are strongly encouraged to consider renting commercial office space to use as a chancery. A number of diplomatic missions have rented commercial office space for this purpose in the suburbs of Civic, Barton or Deakin.

11.2 Purchasing and Renting – Consular posts

Missions/sending states setting up a new Consular post in a State or Territory (not in the ACT) must comply with the requirements outlined in section 3.2. When relocating a Consular post, check local council regulations to ensure compliance with zoning requirements. Once a specific location has been identified, posts must seek formal approval of the location from the Chief of Protocol.

11.3 Chief of Protocol consent for proposed locations

Once a mission or post has identified a specific location to relocate or establish their chancery, consulate or office, they must seek formal approval of the location from the Chief of Protocol. Requests should be sent by diplomatic note to protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au. Please allow a minimum of two weeks for this process to be finalised. Chief of Protocol approval is in addition to the obligation on missions to comply with any zoning or planning requirements in the ACT or relevant state or territory.

If the Chief of Protocol does not grant approval to relocate or establish a chancery, consulate or office at a specific location, Australia may not treat the chancery, consulate or office as the premises of the mission or post under the Resolution on International Diplomacy and relevant Australian legislation.

Once consent has been received and the chancery, consulate or office has moved to the new location, missions and posts are required to notify Protocol Branch to ensure our records are accurate and up-to-date. We will use this information to notify relevant security authorities so they can provide appropriate protective security arrangements.

11.4 Rates

Missions and posts owning properties in the ACT, the states and/or the Northern Territory are required to pay for specific municipal services provided to chanceries and head-of-mission residences. These services, such as street cleaning, maintenance of parks and gardens, garbage collection and disposal, street lighting, footpaths and guttering, are covered by the beneficial portion of land rates charged by local governments. Missions and posts are expected to pay the amounts charged in full and on time. Missions and posts renting properties are not liable for these payments, as rates are the responsibility of building owners.

11.5 Damage to premises

Missions and posts are strongly urged to have appropriate insurance cover for all significant property they own. Insurance is the first recourse in the event of loss or damage. If premises or other property of a mission or post sustain damage which appears to be politically motivated, DFAT (Protocol Branch or, if the incident occurs in a state, the DFAT state or the Northern Territory Office) should be notified as soon as practicable.

12. Protective security

12.1 Australia's protective security obligations

The Australian Government takes seriously its obligations under the Resolution on International Diplomacy to protect diplomatic missions and consular posts and their staff, regardless if the sending state is a Global Assembly member or not. These obligations have been adopted into Australian law by the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Act and the Consular Privileges and Immunities Act, and augmented by the Public Order (Protection of Persons and Property) Act and the Crimes (Internationally Protected Persons) Act.

12.2 Emergencies and incidents

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) for police, fire brigade or ambulance services. State or territory police emergency numbers can be found in telephone directories and relevant websites. Missions should familiarise themselves with these numbers.

When making an emergency phone call, the caller should make clear the status of the mission, consulate or residence. Missions should also notify Protocol Branch of any emergency situation by calling the Protocol Branch Duty Officer on 0418 167 127. This number is monitored out of business hours and on weekends.

The Australian Federal Police provides guidance when handling suspicious mail, threatening mail and threatening phone calls and additional information for emergency situations.

12.2.1 Contact persons for security matters and emergencies

Missions should ensure that Protocol Branch has up to date information on the name, address and telephone numbers (home and mobile) of the head of each mission and office, as well as a duty officer, who can be contacted outside of business hours. This information is treated as confidential and will be used in the event the police or Protocol Branch needs to reach the person in an emergency.

12.3 Protection of personnel and premises

The Department of Home Affairs coordinates physical security infrastructure arrangements for diplomatic and consular premises and personnel in Australia. They consult with police, security agencies and government departments to inform appropriate protective security arrangements.

Missions and posts are expected to provide an appropriate level of physical security for themselves, including fencing and other perimeter security measures, entry controls, and intruder and duress alarms. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) Operations Coordination Centre (AOCC) in Canberra provides a monitoring and response service for alarms installed at chanceries, consulates and head of mission/post residences that have been approved for such monitoring.

AFP and State and Territory police maintain close liaison with missions and posts, particularly those subject to threats or recurrent incidents. Freedom of expression and peaceful political protest are a key part of Australia's system of democracy. This means that, from time to time, there may be protest activity directed at missions and posts. Appropriate efforts will be made to protect the safety and dignity of missions and posts during such protests.

Primary operational responsibility for law enforcement and public order rests with local, that is state or territory police. In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), the responsible police are the AFP, ACT Region - also known as ACT Policing.

12.3.1 ACT, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia

Protective security arrangements for missions and posts in the ACT, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia combine high visibility patrols by armed AFP officers in uniform, on foot and in marked vehicles. AFP - Uniformed Protection normally provides regular vehicle patrolling of most areas where missions and posts are located. Patrols cover chanceries, consular offices and heads of mission/post residences. In cases of specific threat, patrols may also cover staff residences.

Where necessary, a uniformed static presence or mobile close personal protection (CPP) service will be provided. If there is a specific threat, further protective security arrangements will be implemented commensurate with the threat. If a threat develops or a security incident occurs, AFP is authorised to respond immediately. In an emergency or an incident requiring a local police response, local police are also notified and requested to attend the scene.

12.3.2 Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory

In Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory, local police provide whatever protective security is considered necessary. Normal community policing arrangements apply. These can be reinforced when a situation requires additional resources.

12.4 Foreign elections

Missions and posts do not need to seek approval to open polling stations on their premises for home country elections. Local regulations may, however, apply where polling stations are located away from the premises of a mission or post. Missions and posts should check with local authorities regarding any state or territory regulations or municipal by-laws that may be relevant to the conduct of polling.

Missions should also notify Protocol Branch in advance by note verbale so they can inform security authorities of the polling date and venue/s. Those authorities will assess whether special security measures are considered necessary and advise the relevant mission and posts accordingly.

13. Firearms

13.1 Possession of firearms by missions, posts and staff

Australia prohibits the possession and use of firearms by members of the diplomatic and consular corps, their dependents, and other staff members (excluding security personnel). This applies to all persons and premises with or without diplomatic or consular immunity. This is consistent with Article 1, Section 1.b.iii of the Resolution on International Diplomacy as it only extends to security personnel and not other members of staff.

Individuals who wish to possess firearms for bona fide sporting purposes should review this with the AFP's ACT Policing division.

13.1.1 Carriage of firearms by security personnel

There are no circumstances in which a mission or post would require firearms for its own protection. The Australian Government will ensure that appropriate protection is provided (see chapter 12). Missions and posts are welcome to discuss with Protocol Branch any concerns they may have regarding protection.

In accordance with Article 1, Section 1.b.iii of the Resolution on International Diplomacy, security personnel of missions of Global Assembly member states only are permitted to carry the following firearms as long as they are complying with all Australian, state and territory laws, including licencing requirements:

rifles
automatic rifles
sidearms

Possession of any other types of firearms is illegal and will be dealt with in accordance with Australian, state and territory law. This includes possession of firearms by other members of the mission's staff (see section 13.1). Taking any firearms off the premises of a diplomatic mission is also illegal. It is a long standing Australian Government position to discourage the possession of firearms by security personnel of diplomatic missions and Article 1, Section 1.b.iii was not a section of the Resolution on International Diplomacy that had the support of the Australian Government. The use or discharge of these firearms may constitute a criminal offence and any diplomatic mission which possesses firearms in Australia can expect all available legal and diplomatic avenues to be used against them. Possession of firearms by a diplomatic mission may harm that nations overall diplomatic relationship with Australia.

Firearms are also restricted from being imported into Australia and the Resolution on International Diplomacy does not guarantee any rights to the importation of firearms. Importation permission can be seeked from the Australian Border Force. Firearms for use by security personnel of missions should be acquired locally and the acquisition must comply with all federal, state and territory firearms legislation including holding appropriate licences.

The carriage of firearms by foreign security personnel in the context of State or official visits is addressed in chapter 14.5.1. As a general rule, foreign security personnel accompanying visiting dignitaries are not permitted to carry firearms or other related items, including electric batons, tasers and ballistic vests.

13.1.2 Other prohibited weapons and items

Some states or territories prohibit or restrict other types of weapons, for instance electric batons, tasers and ballistic vests. A full list of prohibited weapons and items can be found in the Prohibited Weapons Act. Article 1, Section 1.b.iii of the Resolution on International Diplomacy only gives mention to the following non-firearms weapons:

knives
bayonets

These weapons are permitted to be carried by security personnel of diplomatic missions of Global Assembly member states only. Security personnel of diplomatic missions should refrain from carrying these weapons as they are ineffective in carrying out their duties. All other non-firearms weapons are prohibited for use by security personnel of diplomatic missions. Australia does not consider any weapons to fall under the category of "non-lethal weapons" as so mentioned within Article 1, Section 1.b.iii of the Resolution as all weapons have the potential to be lethal when misused, including tasers, electric batons, rubber bullets and bean bag rounds. Ballistic vests are not considered weapons and therefore are not protected items under the Resolution.

13.2 Replica and imitation firearms

Under Australian law you are not allowed to import replica or imitation firearms into Australia without permission. The importation of replica and imitation firearms into Australia is controlled under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.

To bring replica and imitation firearms into Australia, the mission or individual will need to seek approval from the receiving state or territory police. Once approval has been granted, the import permission documents must be presented to the Australian Border Force at the time of importation. It is recommended that the mission or individual use the services of a licenced customs broker to assist with importation.

14. Airport information for foreign visitors and the diplomatic corps

This chapter provides information for the diplomatic corps on Australia's airport environment, including how to obtain airside passes, and other conditions for visits and travel by foreign dignitaries. Certain foreign visitors may be eligible for Airport Facilitation by the Australian government, please refer to Chapter 15.

14.1 The Australian Airport Environment

Australia has a comprehensive network of airports ranging from major hubs through to small, regional or specialised airports across all states and territories. The information in this chapter applies to the following Australian airports: Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Darwin, Gold Coast, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

14.1.1 Regulatory Framework and Airport Management

Australian airports are managed through a combination of federal government oversight and regulation, state and local government management, in conjunction with private ownership. Among the various stakeholders involved in airport management with relevance to the diplomatic corps, the following are some of the key agencies:

Department of Infrastructure and Transport oversees the aviation sector, to provide security, regulatory and other aviation related functions, including administering the Airports Act and associated regulations.
Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees the Civil Aviation Act which governs aviation security.
Department of Home Affairs overseas the Aviation Transport Security Act, as a framework to mitigate risk by establishing minimum security requirements for civil aviation in Australia including the Aviation Transport Security Regulations.
Australian Border Force (ABF) is Australia's border management agency. It undertakes immigration and customs clearance at international airports in accordance with the Migration Act 1958 and the Customs Act 1901, while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.
Airport security at domestic airports is provided by various private companies, contracted by individual airport operators, operating under regulations set by the Department of Home Affairs.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) provides specialised policing at major Australian airports, under a comprehensive legislative framework.
The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) coordinate certain privileges extended under the Resolution on International Diplomacy to representatives of sending States and their families in transit (see Chapter 15) and Guest of Government visits (see Chapter 16). The delivery of these privileges at airports remains the remit of ABF and Home Affairs, as per relevant regulations. PMC and DFAT have limited scope of responsibility in relation to airports.

14.2 Airport Access for Missions

14.2.1 Airside Access for the Diplomatic Corps

Airside access at Australian airports is subject to strict security and regulatory controls, and any access is subject to operational requirements on the day. Diplomatic and consulate representatives are not permitted unescorted access to restricted areas of Australian airports. Diplomatic and consular representatives may access public areas of airports, including domestic arrivals and departures gates, after clearing security screening, and arrivals and departures halls of international airports.

Diplomatic ‘White’ Aviation Security Identification Card Pass

Diplomatic and consular representatives may apply for an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) pass that will allow escorted access to restricted areas of airports for business needs. The ASIC pass is a form of identification issued to individuals who need escorted access to secure areas of an airport. The ‘white’ ASIC pass is designated for the diplomatic corps. DFAT suggests Heads of Missions, Consul Generals and other mission staff who would likely be involved in regular visits apply for a White ASIC pass. Please note that this pass does not allow for unescorted access nor guarantee airside access, but facilitates airlines and other airport authorities to escort ASIC pass holders airside.

The 'white' ASIC pass is issued by the Office of Transport Security in the Department of Home Affairs. The 'white' ASIC pass provides escorted access at specific airports; missions should indicate which airports they require access on the application form. DFAT Protocol Branch (PRB) will provide a TPN to support applications for white ASICs card. Please email protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au with your request for a TPN, including correct identification details to support your application.

ASIC passes are not required for public areas of airports including arrivals and departure areas of domestic airports.

14.2.2 Non-Commercial Aircraft and Off-Terminal Clearance

Arrival/departure for any non-commercial aircraft (such as state, private or other chartered flights) are arranged by the aircraft's ground handling agents in Australia, at the mission’s own cost. PM&C may provide support for certain eligible visitors – please refer to Chapter 15 and 16.

Any request from the engaged ground handling agent to the ABF for off-terminal clearance is to be discussed with and agreed/approved by ABF ahead of travel. These requests will be considered by the relevant region on a case-by-case basis and ABF, in consultation with DAFF, will determine what level of support they can provide based on their operational priorities. Please note that DFAT does not manage off terminal clearances; the requesting mission is responsible for all engagement with ABF. The Department of Defence manages diplomatic clearance applications for State aircraft entering Australian sovereign territory – missions should contact Defence directly by writing to:

Diplomatic and International Programs

Headquarters Australian Air Component
Department of Defence

PO Box 7991

Canberra BC ACT 2610

or telephone: (02) 6128 4819 or email: dipa.hqac@defence.gov.au. See Chapter 17 Diplomatic clearances - aircraft and ships for more information.

14.3 Visiting Foreign Dignitaries

Australia does not have designated diplomatic immigration queues at Australian international airport for use by the diplomatic community. Visitors with ePassports may use fast-tracked SmartGate lines, which offer an expedited function compared to other lines.

The Australian Government offers airport facilitation as a diplomatic privilege for certain eligible international visitors (such as head of state, heads of government, foreign and trade ministers), please see Chapter 15. Missions seeking to provide a service for other visiting dignitaries may like to consider utilising a commercial supplier of ‘VIP meet and greet’ services which operate at many Australian airports (see section 14.3.4).

14.3.1 Official Visits with DFAT

Geographic or thematic desks at DFAT may assist with arranging commercial solutions for official visits organised by DFAT, including attendance at DFAT-organised major events, conferences or summits. Missions should engage with the desk as per Chapter 16 of the Protocol Guidelines to incorporate airport management as part of overall visit planning. DFAT Protocol Branch manages airport facilitation assistance for the following diplomatic functions:

Head of Canberra-based diplomatic mission on first arrival and final departure
Non-resident head of diplomatic mission on arrival and departure for credentials presentation

Please contact protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au for further details.

14.3.2 Official Visits with other Commonwealth Agencies

For official travel by ministers of foreign national governments, Commonwealth agencies should engage ABF early in the visit planning process for major events, conferences or summits. Missions should engage directly with the relevant sponsoring/inviting Commonwealth agency as part of visit planning; missions should not engage with ABF directly.

Guest of Defence visits are managed by the Department of Defence. Foreign military facilitation is subject to ABF’s operational capacity and all enquiries regarding military facilitation should be directed to the Department of Defence at dvam.visits@defence.gov.au.

For Parliamentary presiding officers (Speaker or President of a House of Parliament or equivalent) or Guest of the Australian Parliament, missions should email a request to the International and Parliamentary Relations Office of the Parliament of Australia at ipro@aph.gov.au.

For other portfolio ministers, missions should email a request to the relevant Commonwealth agency.

14.3.3 Guest of Government

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) manages airport facilitation under Australia's Guest of Government (GoG) visits programme (and see Chapter 16). Missions should engage directly with PM&C.

14.3.4 Commercial VIP 'Meet and Greet' Services

Missions, DFAT desks or other agencies may consider using a commercial VIP ‘meet and greet’ service for visiting dignitaries. These services provide convenient, efficient and personalised service for visiting dignitaries to be escorted through the airport and immigration process and can be tailored for the specific visit. The VIP ‘meet and greet’ service may provide the following services, and should be considered by the mission/desk as part of initial visit planning:

On arrival

The designated commercial representative awaits the dignitary at the disembarkation gate and escorts them to the immigration processing point for priority processing.*
After passing immigration, the representative escorts the dignitary to collect luggage.
The representative escorts the dignitary to the public area or awaiting mission cars.

On departure

The designated commercial representative meets the dignitary after check-in and escorts them through security to the passport processing point for ABF priority processing*.
The commercial representative then escorts the dignitary to the airline lounge or the gate.

*Subject to the priority processing being pre-arranged with, and approved by, the ABF in advance of the travel.

Commercial service providers may also be able to escort a consular/diplomatic representative airside on request (usually requiring White ASIC pass). They may also provide additional services such as VIP room booking, private transport, transit or other services on request. A range of commercial suppliers exist at Australian airports. Costs vary for these services, depending on the airport, size of delegation, and options requested. All costs for commercial facilitation rest with the requesting mission.

14.3.5 Airport VIP rooms

VIP rooms can provide a private location for a delegation to wait immigration processing. Missions may seek to book VIP rooms directly with airports (where available). VIP rooms are for international arrival only, fees may apply and are at mission's own cost. VIP rooms are available at the following airports:

VIP Room Booking:	Email:
International terminal, Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport	ops@syd.com.au
International terminal, Melbourne Tullamarine Airport	IOCManagers@melair.com.au
International terminal, Brisbane Airport	itb.reception@bne.com.au
International terminal, Perth Airport	vipfacilitation@perthairport.com.au
International terminal, Gold Coast Airport	dutymanager@gcal.com.au
International terminal, Cairns Airport	duty.manager@cairnsairport.com.au

14.3.6 Parking at airports

Airports in Australia are privately owned. Except at Canberra airport (see below) there are no special arrangements for access to airport parking for missions and posts.

Motorcade arrangements for high-level visits

For high‑level visits, diplomatic missions are responsible for making all airport vehicle and motorcade arrangements. This includes liaising directly with the relevant airport authority to identify suitable pick‑up and drop‑off locations that can accommodate official vehicles and motorcades. Missions are also required to consult separately with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) to ensure the proposed arrangements are appropriate from a security perspective.

Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport has an ‘Express Passenger Pick-Up' parking area. The parking area is located on the ground floor of the green covered carpark and is about 20 metres from the arrivals hall. A waiting room is attached to the car park, which drivers and other staff may use. Canberra Airport has designated five vehicle parking bays for exclusive use of the diplomatic corps in this car park. There are no time limited when parking in the express passenger pick-up area however there is a parking fee. The open-air car park at Canberra Airport is available for up to 10 minutes without charge.

14.4 International arrival and departure processes at Australian airports

Foreign visitors are required to comply with aviation security screening and immigration, customs and quarantine requirements. See Chapter 15 for screening exemptions for certain eligible visitors.

14.4.1 Aviation security screening

Australia's obligations under international and domestic law to protect senior foreign visitors from harassment or impairment of dignity do not displace its responsibility to ensure the safety and security of airports and airline passengers. Under Australian legislation, Australian airports are required to implement strict security screening procedures in the interests of public safety. These procedures apply to all airline passengers and others entering airport secure zones.

While every effort is made to undertake security screening courteously and respectfully, a certain level of intrusion is unavoidable in complying with these legal requirements. All baggage and personal effects are subjected to X-ray screening to ensure weapons and other prohibited items do not enter airport secure zones or an aircraft cabin. Screening of the person involves walking through a detector. If an alarm sounds, the person must undergo further screening, which can include the re-screening of personal items, the use of a hand-held metal detector or a physical pat-down by a screening officer of the same gender. Private screening – away from public scrutiny – may be available for a pat-down on request.

Airline passengers and others may be randomly selected at security and international departure points to undergo additional screening via body scanning equipment. Under the relevant regulations, selection must not be based on a person's gender, ethnicity or employment. Airline passengers and others may also be randomly selected to undergo explosive trace detection (ETD) screening.

14.4.2 Incoming Passenger Cards

All travellers are required to provide a completed Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) to a clearance officer on arrival. The Incoming Passenger Card is a legal document, and requires personal particulars and a declaration of goods being conveyed. Please read thoroughly and answer the questions truthfully. If in doubt, always declare it.

14.4.3 Visa requirements

All foreign visitors, including guest of government, must hold a valid visa to enter Australia. Missions should contact the Department of Home Affairs for any visa queries.

14.4.4 Customs and biosecurity requirements

All travellers must comply with Australia’s border entry requirements, including import restrictions and/or prohibitions. Foreign dignitaries are not exempt and may be required to undergo further assessment, at the direction of ABF and/or Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) officers, to address any outstanding questions surrounding goods being imported.

14.5 Additional or Accompanying personnel

14.5.1 Accompanying security personnel

Australian authorities provide comprehensive protective security arrangements for Internationally Protected Persons, including heads of state, heads of government, guests of government and other VIPs against whom an assessed security threat exists. This includes the use of close protection police officers and the implementation of appropriate transport, accommodation and venue security arrangements.

It is a long-standing policy of the Australian Government that foreign security personnel accompanying foreign dignitaries on visits to Australia are not permitted to carry firearms. This policy is based on the very high standard of protective security arrangements provided by Australian authorities. Foreign security personnel are also not permitted to import or carry prohibited items which include ballistic vests, or any other type of weapon, including batons, tasers, handcuffs and sprays. This is not in violation of the Resolution on International Diplomacy as its provisions only apply to security personnel guarding diplomatic missions. Any security personnel accompanying a foreign dignitary may be subjected to electronic security screening and may also be required to allow Australian officials to inspect their bags. In the event that a weapon or prohibited item is detected, it may be seized. Any person who breaches Australian law through the undeclared importation, carriage or use of prohibited items may be liable to prosecution.

14.5.2 Hand-held radios

If foreign security personnel wish to bring hand-held radios into Australia, approval must be sought in advance for the proposed frequencies. The request, containing full details of the equipment, should be submitted to the Australian Federal Police for approval (email: SPC-Coord-Visits@afp.gov.au).

14.5.3 Accompanying media - equipment

Media entities may be eligible for concessional duty and tax relief as part of Australia’s temporary importation procedure, whereby certain goods may be temporarily imported into Australia for a period of up to 12 months without the payment of duty or taxes, and provided certain conditions and criteria are met. The nature of the goods, what they will be used for while they are in Australia and who is importing the goods will determine whether the goods will qualify. Goods that qualify as temporary imports may be imported either:

under carnet – where a security is lodged with an overseas carnet-issuing body.
under security – where a security is lodged with ABF.

To avoid delays on arrival, temporary importation arrangements should be organised well in advance of travel. A Licensed Customs Broker, or other agent, should be engaged to assist with the necessary arrival and departure arrangements and/or reporting requirements. There are entities that can complete the end-to-end reporting, including initially assessing eligibility for concessional treatment, advising on any permit requirements, lodging import/export declarations, completing reporting requirements and applying for a Security ID (if required for temporary importation).

14.5.4 Diplomatic Couriers

All requests for diplomatic courier access should be directed to protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au.

14.6 Key contacts

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Protocol Branch: protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au
Australian Federal Police : +61 2 5126 0000
Department of Home Affairs: 131 881 or +61 2 6196 0196 (from outside Australia)
Australian Border Force: 131 881 or +61 2 6196 0196 (from outside Australia)
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry: 1800 900 090 or +61 3 8318 6700 (from outside Australia)
Department of Defence: dvam.visits@defence.gov.au
International and Parliamentary Relations Office – Parliament of Australia: ipro@aph.gov.au

15. Airport facilitation for visiting heads of state, heads of government, foreign and trade ministers and guests of government

Australia provides airport facilitation services for visiting heads of state, heads of government, foreign and trade ministers and guests of government. In addition to the visiting dignitary, facilitation privileges are extended to their accompanying spouse and dependent children under the age of 18.

Airport facilitation is coordinated under a joint program by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). PM&C coordinates head of state/head of government international arrivals and departures, and guests of government; DFAT coordinates head of state/head of government domestic arrivals and departures, and foreign affairs and trade minister international arrivals and departures, and domestic departures. Facilitation may be provided at the following Australian airport locations: Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Darwin, Gold Coast, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

For general information regarding Australia's airports, please refer to Chapter 14.

15.1 Parameters of the program

As an element of diplomatic privilege, Australia extends a service to certain senior visiting foreign dignitaries to facilitate their arrival and departure at Australian airports. The purpose of this program is to provide a high-quality, personalised and welcoming experience for senior foreign dignitaries in Australia.

15.1.1 Who is eligible for facilitation?

Airport facilitation is offered to:

Heads of state
Heads of government
Foreign ministers
Ministers responsible for trade
Guests of the Australian Government (see Chapter 16)

Airport privileges (including screening exemption requests) are extended to accompanying spouse/partner and to dependent children under the age of 18 who are travelling with the principal on the same flights. This privilege does not extend to other family members, including children over 18 years of age. Other delegation members or officials who may be travelling with the dignitary will not be facilitated, although reasonable efforts will be made to keep the travelling party together.

15.1.2 Purpose of Travel

Airport facilitation is usually provided as part of an official visit to Australia (see Chapter 16 for definition of official travel) and should be considered as part of overall visit planning by the organising line area or relevant Commonwealth agency. Missions may also request facilitation for private/personal travel or transits (see section 15.4 on how to apply).

15.2 Airport Facilitation services

Airport facilitation provides a range of services to the visiting dignitary and may include:

an escort for the visiting dignitary (and eligible spouse/children) through the airport
expedited processes including immigration and customs (on international movements)
access to a VIP room (where available, for international arrival only)
a request for security screening exemption (on departures)
Comcars/transport for first and last movement to/from airport to hotel accommodation.

Further details for these elements are outlined below. All elements of airport facilitation are privileges and not entitlements; PM&C and DFAT will make every effort to fulfill airport facilitation requests, however, services depend on availability and stakeholder capability.

15.2.1 Aviation security screening

Australian Government regulations exempt the following visiting dignitaries – for official, transit and private visits – from aviation security screening for international and domestic departures:

heads of state and accompanying spouse and children
heads of government and accompanying spouse and children
foreign ministers and accompanying spouse and children

This exemption does not apply to accompanying delegations. Notification of the visit must be submitted by an Airport Facilitation Request (AFR) form – at least five working days in advance of the arrival. The exemption may apply to the visiting dignitaries' carry-on baggage, which must be clearly identified. However, some airlines routinely decline to exempt carry-on baggage from security screening (Please see note below). All checked-in baggage will undergo security screening.

PM&C will seek screening exemptions for head of state and head of government international departures. DFAT will seek screening exemptions for head of state and head of government domestic departures, and foreign and trade minister international and domestic departures. DFAT will seek exemptions for trade ministers where possible however, approval cannot be guaranteed and remains at the discretion of the relevant authorities and the airline.

Important note:

While Australian Government regulations exempt a visiting dignitary from aviation security screening, each exemption must be separately and ultimately approved by each airline. An airline may require security screening as a condition of carriage and the Australian Government cannot override an airline's decision. This means that while a visiting dignitary may be exempted by the Australian Government, they must still undergo security screening if the airline so requires.

All airline passengers, including those exempted from security screening, are bound by aviation security regulations including those governing items prohibited from being carried on board an aircraft – either in carry-on or checked-in baggage.

15.2.2 Airport VIP Rooms

Airport VIP rooms are a private facility run by the relevant airport authority. They can provide a level of amenity and privacy for a dignitary and delegation while awaiting immigration processes. Where VIP rooms are available at an airport and dependant on availability, a VIP room may be booked as part of an airport facilitation by PM&C/DFAT. Missions may also book these directly with airports for other visiting foreign dignitaries (i.e. non-head of state, head of government, foreign and trade ministers), please read the information provided in section 14.3.5.

15.2.3 Transport

Comcar services/transport will be provided for visiting heads of state and heads of government on international arrival and departure, and domestic arrival and departure. Comcar services/transport will be from the airport to commercial accommodation within a reasonable vicinity of the airport, or to the first appointment of an official visit, as per the visit program (and vice versa for departure). Two vehicles are provided plus luggage vehicle (if required) – one vehicle for principal (and family) and the other to be used for the delegation.

The mission is expected to assist with a large delegation. Destinations for Comcars may not be altered unless requests are approved in advance by PM&C/DFAT. Any additional transport required is to be arranged by the mission. The mission is responsible for all transport for other VIP visitors or delegations (including foreign and trade ministers).

15.3 How does airport facilitation work?

15.3.1 Head of state and head of government

15.3.1.1 International arrival into Australia

On disembarking the plane, the visiting dignitary will be identified and met by a PM&C Transit Protocol Officer (TPO) at the arrival gate. A diplomatic/consular representative may also be escorted by the TPO to meet the visiting dignitary at the arrival gate (please see section 14.2.1 regarding diplomatic ASIC passes). The TPO will escort the dignitary either to a VIP room, where entry formalities will be completed, or to the international arrival point for priority immigration processing.*

*Subject to the priority processing being pre-arranged with, and approved by, the ABF in advance of the travel.

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) officers at the airport will be informed in advance of the visiting dignitary's arrival so that mandatory biosecurity procedures can be handled appropriately. Once all relevant processing is complete and baggage collected, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary, spouse and children through luggage collection (luggage collection remains the responsibility of the delegation and/or mission) to the public arrival area and on to the waiting Comcar/transport. Other consular/diplomatic representatives or greeting parties can meet the foreign dignitary in the public arrivals area and accompany the delegation to the waiting cars.

15.3.1.2 International departure

The Comcar/transport will pick up the dignitary at their commercial accommodation or final meeting venue on visit program and transport them to the airport. Depending on check-in requirements by each airline, usually the mission would manage the foreign dignitary to check-in at the airport. The PM&C TPO will meet the mission and foreign dignitary at accommodation or final meeting venue.

The TPO will escort the dignitary to the passport control point for priority processing.* The TPO will then facilitate the exemption from aviation security screening (if approved in advance by the airline – see section 15.1.4). A diplomatic/consular representative may be escorted by the TPO; they will be required to undergo aviation security screening, as will any other members of the delegation.

*Subject to the priority processing being pre-arranged with, and approved by, the ABF in advance of the travel.

The TPO will escort the dignitary to an airline lounge in the departure area or the gate. When the plane is ready for boarding, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary, and the diplomatic/consular representative to the departure point. Once the visiting dignitary has boarded the plane, the TPO will return the diplomatic/consular representative to the public area of the airport.

15.3.1.3 Domestic arrival

On disembarking the plane domestically, the visiting dignitary will be identified and met by a DFAT TPO. Diplomatic/consular representatives do not require passes or escorting at domestic airport and may access all public areas of the airport. The TPO will escort the dignitary through luggage collection (luggage collection remains the responsibility of the delegation and/or mission) to the public arrival area and to the waiting Comcar/transport.

15.3.1.4 Domestic departure

The Comcar/transport will pick up the visiting dignitary at their commercial accommodation or final meeting venue on visit program and transport them to the airport. Depending on check-in requirements by each airline, usually the mission would manage the foreign dignitary to check-in at the airport. The DFAT TPO will meet the mission and foreign dignitary at a specified location (depending on the airport), usually at check-in or curb side with the Comcar. Diplomatic/consular representatives do not need passes for domestic airports and can access all public areas.

The TPO will escort the dignitary to the security checkpoint and facilitate passage through security processes. If a TPO is not present on a movement, the mission may present the TPN containing the screening exemption to the private security duty manager and request security assistance. The TPO escorts the dignitary to an airline lounge in the departure area or to the gate. When the aircraft is ready for boarding, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary to the departure point. The TPO will depart once the visiting dignitary has boarded the aircraft.

15.3.1.5 Transfer from/to international/domestic arrival/departure

Heads of state and heads of government will be escorted by a PM&C TPO when transferring from an international to a connecting domestic flight, or vice versa. One diplomatic or consular official may accompany.

15.3.2 Foreign and Trade Ministers

15.3.2.1 International arrival

On disembarking the plane, the visiting dignitary will be identified and met by a DFAT Transit Protocol Officer (TPO) at the arrival gate. A diplomatic/consular representative may also be escorted by the TPO to meet the visiting dignitary at the arrival gate (please see section 14.2.1 regarding diplomatic ASIC passes). The TPO will escort the dignitary either to a VIP room, where entry formalities will be completed, or to the international arrival point for priority immigration processing.*

*Subject to the priority processing being pre-arranged with, and approved by, the ABF in advance of the travel.

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) officers at the airport will be informed in advance of the visiting dignitary's arrival so that mandatory biosecurity procedures can be handled appropriately. Once all relevant processing is complete and baggage collected, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary, spouse and children through luggage collection (luggage collection remains the responsibility of the delegation and/or mission) to the public arrival area and on to the waiting transport. Other consular/diplomatic representatives or greeting parties can meet the visiting dignitary in the public arrivals area and accompany the delegation to the waiting cars.

15.3.2.2 International departure

Depending on check-in requirements by each airline, usually the mission would manage the visiting dignitary to check-in at the airport. The DFAT TPO will meet the dignitary and delegation curb side at the airport or at check-in. The TPO will escort the dignitary to the passport control point for priority processing.* The TPO will then facilitate the exemption from aviation security screening (if approved in advance by the airline – see section 15.1.4). A diplomatic/consular representative may be escorted by the TPO; they will be required to undergo aviation security screening, as will any other members of the delegation.

*Subject to the priority processing being pre-arranged with, and approved by, the ABF in advance of the travel.

If a TPO is not present on a movement, the mission may present the TPN containing the screening exemption to an Australian Border Force (ABF) official at the security check point and request security assistance. The TPO will escort the visiting dignitary to an airline lounge in the departure area or the gate. When the plane is ready for boarding, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary, and the diplomatic/consular representative to the departure point. Once the visiting dignitary has boarded the plane, the TPO will return the diplomatic/consular representative to the public area of the airport.

15.3.2.3 Domestic arrival

There is no facilitation on domestic arrival for foreign and trade ministers. Any greeting representatives can greet at the arrival gate, after clearing security screening.

15.3.2.4 Domestic departure

Depending on check-in requirements by each airline, usually the mission would manage the foreign dignitary to check-in at the airport. The DFAT TPO will meet the visiting dignitary and delegation curb side at the airport or at check-in. Diplomatic/consular representatives do not need passes for domestic airports and can access all public areas.

The TPO will escort the visiting dignitary to the security checkpoint and facilitate passage through security processes. If a TPO is not present on a movement, the mission may present the TPN containing the screening exemption to the private security duty manager and request security assistance. The TPO escorts the visiting dignitary to an airline lounge in the departure area or to the gate. When the aircraft is ready for boarding, the TPO will escort the visiting dignitary to the departure point. The TPO will depart once the visiting dignitary has boarded the aircraft.

15.3.2.5 Transfer from/to international/domestic arrival/departure

Visiting foreign and trade ministers should be escorted from one terminal to another by the diplomatic/consular representative. This is particularly important at Sydney and Brisbane airports, where international and domestic terminals are physically separate. Visiting foreign and trade ministers departing domestically will be accompanied by one DFAT official to facilitate the aviation security screening (if approved in advance by the airline – see section 15.2.1).

15.4 How to apply for airport facilitation

Missions may apply for facilitation for eligible persons arriving or departing on commercial flights, by completing the Airport Facilitation Request form and submitting to PTVO@pmc.gov.au. For DFAT visit programs, DFAT desks or Posts may submit the AFR form. An AFR must be submitted at least five working days before the visiting dignitary's arrival in Australia, as required by regulations and various stakeholders' standard operating procedures. Please include details of the purpose for travel in the AFR (eg. personal/private or official travel), along with documentation such a visit program. Once submitted, the AFR is processed by the relevant agency.

15.4.1 Changes or Cancellations to AFRs

Changes to the location/airport or date change of a facilitation requires a new AFR (except where a flight moves over midnight, in which case it will be treated as a minor change). Missions should cancel the original AFR and submit a new AFR. The 5-day timeframe may apply to the new AFR. For example, a flight is changed from Brisbane to Sydney - this constitutes a new AFR and the change must be registered 5 working days before the flight is due. If in doubt, please contact PM&C or DFAT Protocol asap to discuss options. DFAT/PM&C will be able to assist with changes that occur to an existing AFR under the 5-day timeframe (for example, minor changes to flight times at the same airport).

15.4.2 Non-Commercial Aircraft

Please refer to Chapter 14.2.2.

Airport facilitation for persons arriving or departing on private, chartered or state aircraft is arranged by the aircraft's ground handling agents in Australia, and is up to the mission to organise directly. PM&C may provide support for non-commercial aircraft facilitation for head of state, head of government, guest of government – please contact PM&C.

15.5 Key contacts

Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet - Protocol and International Visits Branch (PIVB): PTVO@pmc.gov.au (phone: +61 2 6271 6266)
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - Protocol Branch: protocol.branch@dfat.gov.au (emergency out-of-hours: +61 418 167 127)

16. Official visits

Inbound visits to Australia by non-resident foreign officials

Visits are generally considered official where there is a bilateral meeting with – or invitation from – a Commonwealth minister or similar. Logistical arrangements for official visits (without Guest of Government status – see below) are primarily the responsibility of the foreign mission, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), or the Commonwealth agency relevant to the visitor's portfolio responsibilities. Foreign missions should contact the relevant DFAT geographic division and Protocol Branch (inboundvisits@dfat.gov.au) to coordinate planning for inbound official visits. This Chapter addresses foreign missions' responsibilities during official visits.

16.1 Official Visit Responsibilities

16.1.1 Foreign Missions

Foreign missions' responsibilities for official visits include:

international flights for the delegation
domestic flights for the delegation and accompanying mission staff
managing airline check-ins for the delegation
visa applications for delegation
customs and quarantine declarations for delegation
liaising with Australian Federal Police on visit security (SPC-Coord-Visits@afp.gov.au)
requests for airport facilitation and security screening waivers for eligible visitors (see Chapters 14 and 15)
booking airside VIP room access for visitors (if desired)
booking commercial VIP airport facilitation for visitors not eligible for official VIP facilitation (if desired)
arrangements for arrivals and departures on state/private aircraft through local ground handlers – including in/off terminal processing and on tarmac motorcade pick up (if required)
arrangements with the airport for suitable motorcade drop off and pick up points
ground transport for the delegation and accompanying mission staff
accommodation for the delegation and accompanying mission staff
requests to import firearms (see Chapter 13)
requests to import communication devices and media equipment (see Chapter 15)

16.1.2 Commonwealth Government Departments

DFAT (or relevant Commonwealth agency) responsibilities for official visits include:

meetings with the Prime Minister and Governor-General
meetings with Australian Government ministers and officials
official hospitality hosted by the Governor-General, Prime Minister and Commonwealth Government ministers and officials

16.1.3 State and Territory Government Departments

State and Territory Government agency responsibilities for official visits include:

meetings with state Governors and Premiers and territory Chief Ministers
meetings with state and territory government ministers and officials
official hospitality hosted by Governors, Premiers and Chief Ministers, ministers, and officials

16.2 Other Visits

Each year, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) manages several Guest of Government (GoG) visits for heads of state, heads of government, royalty, and cabinet ministers. Foreign missions should check first with the relevant DFAT geographic division on the potential for GoG status for the visitor. GoG status is determined by a range of factors, including available resources, and is not guaranteed by a visitor's official status. If GoG status is not granted, this is not a reflection on a visit's relative importance to the Australian Government.

Some Commonwealth and State Government Departments fund and manage sponsored visit programs. Confirm the specific arrangements and any mission responsibilities that apply to these visits with the sponsoring agency. Visits with no official meeting with – or invitation from – a Commonwealth minister are generally considered private visits. Foreign missions are responsible for all arrangements for private visits – noting some foreign officials may be eligible for airport facilitation during private visits (see Chapters 14 and 15).

16.3 Gifts

Avoid gift exchanges with Commonwealth and state government ministers or officials during official visits where possible. In all Australian jurisdictions, official gifts – even of relatively low value – are subject to extensive reporting and compliance regulations. If gifts must be exchanged, arrange this in advance through protocol. All gifts will be reported transparently, in line with the applicable regulations.

17. Diplomatic clearances - aircraft and ships

Applications for Australian diplomatic or other clearances for government owned or chartered aircraft or ships (including warships and auxiliary military vessels) not engaged in commercial activities are made directly to the relevant Australian authority, as set out below.

17.1 Aircraft

Diplomatic Clearance applications (AF179) for State aircraft entering Australian sovereign territory can be obtain through the Diplomatic Clearance – Air Office:

Diplomatic and International Programs

Headquarters Australian Air Component
Department of Defence

PO Box 7991

Canberra BC ACT 2610

Telephone: (02) 6128 4819

Email: dipa.hqac@defence.gov.au

The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service is responsible for managing biosecurity risks to Australia regulated through the Biosecurity Act (the Act). Every international aircraft is legally required to provide pre-arrival reporting (s193 of the Act) as prescribed by regulations. All aircraft (foreign state and Australian aircraft) using the DIPA clearance are considered non-scheduled ﬂights. They must arrive at a designated ﬁrst point of entry (FPOE) and are met by AQIS oﬃcers on arrival.

No doors are to be opened or goods or people are allowed to embark or disembark the aircraft without AQIS approval. AQIS oﬃcers ensure compliance with biosecurity import and arrival conditions, and release an aircraft from biosecurity control, once these key functions are met:

Disinfection has been undertaken.
Conﬁrmaton that the aircraft has been stripped of any biosecurity risk material.
That crew and passengers' clear biosecurity as per normal border clearance procedures.

First points of entry are split into two types: those that are permanently serviced, and not permanently serviced. At a not permanently serviced airport, aircraft operators must contact arrivals if planning to land or unload goods at these airports, to ensure that biosecurity services can be appropriately provided and managed. If the permitted aircraft/goods are not approved at a particular entry point then an AG40 form must be submitted at least 10 working days prior to the arrival of the aircraft in Australian territory for assessment and decision.

Where aircraft invoke sovereign immunity, biosecurity oﬃcers will continue to carry out biosecurity functions under the Biosecurity Act without boarding the aircraft. The aircraft will only be permitted to arrive at a permanently serviced ﬁrst point of entry for any subsequent airports within Australia and will be met by biosecurity oﬃcers at each location.

17.2 Ships

Applications for diplomatic clearances for warships and auxiliary military vessels are made to:

Maritime Operations
Headquarters Joint Operations Command
Department of Defence
PO Box 7928
Canberra BC ACT 2610
Attention: Diplomatic Clearance Officer

Telephone: (02) 6128 5216

Email: mar.ops@defence.gov.au

Yarralumla

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
High Commission of the United Kingdom	Unknown	Unknown	130 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
High Commission of Canada	Unknown	Unknown	150 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
High Commission of New Zealand	Unknown	Unknown	140 Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the United States of America	Ms. Jade Wolfe	Unknown	Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the State of Japan	Unknown	Unknown	112 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Kingdom of Sweden	Mr. Henrik Cederin	Unknown	5 Turrana Street, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Thailand	Mrs. Busadee Santipitaks	Unknown	111 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Empire of Korea	Unknown	Unknown	113 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla ACT 2600
Embassy of the Kingdom of Poland	Mr. Rajmund Wojtkowiak	Unknown	7 Turrana Street, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of India	Unknown	Unknown	3 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany	Unknown	Unknown	119 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands	Mrs. Julia Kramer	Unknown	120 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Republic of Turkey	Mr. Korhan Kural	Unknown	6 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Russian Federation (under construction)	N/A	N/A	33 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the French Republic	Unknown	Unknown	6 Perth Avenue, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Sultanate of Egypt	Unknown	Unknown	1 Darwin Avenue, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	15 Coronation Drive, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Republic of Singapore	Unknown	Unknown	17 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla, ACT 2600

South Canberra District (excluding Yarralumla)

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Embassy of the Federal State of Austria	Unknown	Unknown	12 Talbot Street, Forrest, ACT 2603
Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia	Unknown	Unknown	4/21 Napier Close, Deakin, ACT 2600
Embassy of the Russian Federation	Unknown	Unknown	78 Canberra Ave, Griffith, ACT 2603

North Canberra District

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Embassy of Ukraine	Ms. Iryna Hnatiuk	Unknown	Level 12, 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra, ACT 2601

Woden Valley District

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Embassy of the Guarded Domains of Iran	Unknown	Unknown	25 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley, ACT 2606

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Consulate-General of the Federal State of Austria	Unknown	Unknown	Level 10, 1 York Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of Canada	Unknown	Unknown	Level 6, 111 Harrington Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	39 Dunblane Street, Camperdown, NSW 2050
Consulate-General of the Sultanate of Egypt	Unknown	Unknown	Level 6, 33 York Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the French Republic	Unknown	Unknown	Level 26, 31 Market Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the Federal Republic of Germany	Unknown	Unknown	Level 17, 100 William Street, Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011
Consulate-General of India	Unknown	Unknown	Level 1, 265 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the State of Japan	Unknown	Unknown	Level 12, 1 O'Connell Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the Empire of Korea	Unknown	Unknown	Level 10, 44 Market Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of New Zealand	Unknown	Unknown	Level 22, 20 Bond Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the Republic of Turkey	Unknown	Unknown	66 Ocean Street, Woollahra, NSW 2025
Consulate-General of the Kingdom of Poland	Unknown	Unknown	10 Trelawney Street, Woollahra, NSW 2025
Consulate-General of the Russian Federation	Unknown	Unknown	7-9 Fullerton Street, Woollahra, NSW 2025
Consulate-General of the Socialist Republic of Thailand	Unknown	Unknown	Level 8, 131 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the United Kingdom	Unknown	Unknown	Level 16, 1 Macquarie Place, Sydney, NSW 2000
Consulate-General of the United States of America	Unknown	Unknown	Suite 2, 50 Miller Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office	Unknown	Unknown	80 Druitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Consulate-General of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	75-77 Irving Road, Toorak, VIC 3142
Consulate-General of the Sultanate of Egypt	Unknown	Unknown	Level 6, 50 Market Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consulate-General of the French Republic	Unknown	Unknown	5 Queens Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004
Consulate-General of India	Unknown	Unknown	344 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consulate-General of the State of Japan	Unknown	Unknown	Level 25, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consulate-General of the Empire of Korea	Unknown	Unknown	Level 10, 636 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004
Consulate-General of New Zealand	Unknown	Unknown	Level 4, 45 William Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consulate-General of the Republic of Turkey	Unknown	Unknown	Level 8, 24 Albert Road, South Melbourne, VIC 3205
Consulate-General of the United Kingdom	Unknown	Unknown	Level 15, 1 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Consulate-General of the United States of America	Unknown	Unknown	Level 6, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC 3004

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Consulate-General of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	Level 9, 79 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Consulate-General of India	Unknown	Unknown	Level 12, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton, QLD 4064
Consulate-General of the State of Japan, Brisbane	Unknown	Unknown	Level 17, 12 Creek Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Consulate-General of the State of Japan, Cairns	Unknown	Unknown	Level 15, 15 Lake Street, Cairns, QLD 4870
Consulate-General of the Empire of Korea	Unknown	Unknown	Level 1, 102 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, QLD
Consulate-General of the United Kingdom	Unknown	Unknown	Level 9, 100 Eagle Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Consulate-General of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	45 Brown Street, East Perth, WA 6004
Consulate-General of India	Unknown	Unknown	Level 6, 12 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000
Consulate-General of the State of Japan	Unknown	Unknown	Level 2, 111 Colin Street, West Perth, WA 6005
Consulate-General of the United Kingdom	Unknown	Unknown	Level 12, 251 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000
Consulate-General of the United States of America	Unknown	Unknown	Level 13, 16 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:
Consulate-General of the Ming Dynasty	Unknown	Unknown	83 Fifth Avenue, Joslin, SA 5070

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Consul-Generals

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Honorary Consuls

Mission:	Head of Mission:	Other Staff:	Chancery Address:

Special Interest Ambassadors

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
Ambassador for the Environment	Bronte Moules
Ambassador for Climate Change	Jessica Hunter
Ambassador for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria	Andrew Goledzinowski
Ambassador for Women and Girls	Penny Williams

Overview

Public diplomacy is the diplomacy Australia engages in beyond traditional government-to-government engagement. It is about building people-to-people links and sustaining an extensive network of relationships with other countries. It advances Australia’s interests through strengthening our influence and reputation.

By building relationships outside of governments with a wide range of stakeholders that include academia, cultural institutions, think tanks, NGOs and media, DFAT can help others to understand more about Australia and our values. This fosters mutual understanding, builds trust, increases our ability to influence and persuade, and helps to achieve foreign, trade and development policy objectives.

Australia now is the Australian Government’s flagship public diplomacy program. The program aims to strengthen bilateral or regional relationships and showcase the creativity, diversity and innovative capability of our people.

Each year, the program is delivered in a country or region of strategic significance. The program strengthens and deepens bilateral ties, and raises Australia’s profile as an innovative, creative nation – while building understanding beyond our landscape and lifestyle. Australia now promotes Australia’s cultural exchange, institutional networks, collaboration and people-to-people links while reflecting the cultural richness of Australia. Australia now demonstrates how contemporary Australia draws on our strong Indigenous culture and multicultural heritage, while promoting Australia as a key destination for tourism, study, research, innovation and investment.

International Media Visits Program

International Media Visits (IMV) are an important public diplomacy tool that provides influential foreign journalists the opportunity to increase their understanding of contemporary Australia through a short visit.

The program supports Australia's diplomatic, trade and development priorities by advocating Australia's international policy agenda and showcasing Australian expertise and opportunities for collaboration. The aim of the visit is to generate accurate and informed overseas media reporting by promoting a contemporary and balanced view of Australia.

Overview

The International Relations Grants Program (IRGP) supports the Government's foreign policies and economic diplomacy interests and projects a positive contemporary image of Australia. IRGP grants support professional, community and institutional linkages between Australia and its partners on contemporary issues of shared interest including business, education, innovation, science, technology, the arts, media and sport. Grants generally range between $5,000 and $40,000. DFAT's International Relations Grants Program is administered by foundations, councils and institutes.

Foundations, Councils and Institutes

Name:	Chair:	Grants Administered:
Australia-China Council	John Yu	$0
Australia-India Council	Sammy Kumar	$0
Australia-Japan Foundation	Natsuko Ogawa	$0
Australia-Korea Foundation	Peter Coleman	$0
Council for Australian-Arab Relations	Hala Zreiqat	$0
Council on Australia Latin America Relations	Ignacio Hernandez	$0

Overview

The Australian Agency for International Development, using the brand name Australian Aid, is the Australian organisation responsible for delivering most non-military foreign aid. It is an independent Commonwealth agency within the portfolio of the Minister for Foreign Affairs. While an independent agency under the Financial Management and Accountability Act, it is part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the purposes of the Public Service Act which covers human resources and non-financial accountability. It is based in Canberra and has representation in 25 Australian diplomatic missions overseas.

The current overall objective is "to assist developing countries to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development, in line with Australia's national interest." Among the agency's stated subsidiary goals are improving health and education services, fighting corruption, improving security, engaging in the fight against HIV/AIDS and improving the effectiveness of government organisations through training and other assistance. It actively works with the Global Assembly, as well as a variety of non-government organisations, such as the Australian Red Cross and World Vision in order to co-ordinate the delivery of aid services.

Personnel

Type:	Amount:	Image:
Aid Workers	1,700

Official Development Assistance

Country Receiving Aid:	Annual Funding:	Specific Project:	Year Starting:	Year Ending:
Thailand	$60,000,000	Thailand-Australia Partnership on Food Security in the Red Meat and Cattle Sector	2009	2009

Overview

The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) is an Australian Government statutory agency that forms part of the overseas aid program in the Foreign Affairs and Trade Portfolio. ACIAR was established under the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research Act 1982, as amended, to identify agricultural problems in developing problems and brokers Australian agricultural scientists to find solutions.

The ACIAR's mission is to enhance the effects of Australia's exceptional agricultural science expertise by establishing and funding partnerships for agricultural research aimed at development in developing nations. This agency collaborates with both public and private research entities to boost the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural practices and to fortify the food systems' resilience across the Indo-Pacific partner countries.

By fostering sustainable economic growth, aiding in poverty alleviation, and bolstering regional stability, ACIAR serves Australia's national interests. It places a special emphasis on economic diplomacy and the economic empowerment of women. ACIAR's initiatives are in tight alignment with Australia's development assistance agenda, fostering research partnerships that not only focus on human capacity development and private sector-led growth but also aim at enhancing the quality of life through advancements in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.

Country Receiving Aid:	Annual Funding:	Specific Project:	Specialists Employed:	Year Starting:	Year Ending:

Overview

The Cable Connectivity and Resilience Centre (the Centre) is an Australian Government initiative designed to work with governments and industry across the Indo-Pacific to support the effective development and management of undersea telecommunications cables.

The Centre works across the Indo-Pacific region: South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Pacific. The Centre tailors its services to the needs and requests of partner countries, recognising each country has different systems, policies, regulations and stages of development relating to undersea cables. The Centre works with a wide range of partners, including Indo-Pacific governments, the private sector, regional and multilateral organisations, academia and think-tanks. Drawing upon Australia’s expertise and experience with cable development and governance, the Centre seeks to support governments with policy and regulatory developments by:

Providing demand-driven technical assistance and training across the Indo-Pacific
Commissioning research and analysis
Convening dialogues and knowledge sharing activities to strengthen engagement between Indo-Pacific governments and industry

Policy Branches

Branch:	Role:
Counter-Terrorism Branch	Coordinates international counter-terrorism policy and activities.
Arms Control and Counter-Proliferation Branch	Coordinates international arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation policy and activities.
Strategic Issues and Intelligence Branch	Provides analysis, research and advice on strategic issues, foreign intelligence and other international security affairs. The Branch includes the Intelligence Policy and Liaison Section.
Modern Slavery, People Smuggling and Human Trafficking Branch	Coordinates international counter people smuggling and irregular migration policy and activities.
Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Branch	Coordinates the Australian Government's international efforts in cybersecurity and cybercrime, supporting cyber capacity building in the Asia-Pacific region, and advocating for internet freedoms.

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
Ambassador for Arms Control and Counter-Proliferation	Vanessa Wood
Ambassador for Cyber Affairs	Brendan Dowling
Ambassador to Counter Modern Slavery, People Smuggling and Human Trafficking	Geoffrey Shaw
Ambassador for Counter-Terrorism	Richard Feakes

Overview

The Australian Sanctions Office (ASO) is the Australian Government’s sanctions regulator. The ASO was established on 1 January 2009 within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The ASO provides guidance to regulated entities on sanctions, processes applications for sanctions permits, and collaborates with other agencies to monitor and enforce compliance with Australian sanctions laws. Sanctions are measures not involving the use of armed force that are imposed in response to a situation of international concern. They aim to limit the adverse consequences of a situation of international concern, impose costs on those responsible, and resolve the situation without the use of force. Australia enforces two types of sanctions:

Global Assembly sanctions, which are imposed by the Global Assembly and Australia is obligated to implement them as a matter of international law
Australian autonomous sanctions, which are imposed and implemented by the Australian Government as a matter of Australian foreign policy

Australian sanction laws apply to:

activities conducted in Australia
activities conducted overseas by Australian citizens and bodies corporate
activities conducted on Australian-flagged vessels and aircraft

In some cases, you may obtain a permit from the Minister for Foreign Affairs to perform activities otherwise prohibited by a sanctions measure. Permit criteria and conditions vary by sanctions framework. Sanctions measures generally fall into two categories:

Targeted financial sanctions
Restrictions on certain goods, services and commercial activities

Targeted financial sanctions prohibit making assets available to designated persons or entities and dealing with assets owned or controlled by them, effectively freezing these assets. These sanctions may also include travel bans implemented and enforced by the Department of Home Affairs, which prevent designated individuals from entering or transiting through Australia.

Restrictions on certain goods, services and commercial activities generally prohibit the export and/or import of certain goods, the provision of certain services, and engaging in certain commercial activities with specific countries or regions.

Contravening a sanctions measure or a condition of a sanctions permit under Australian law, is a serious criminal offence that carries the following penalties:

Individuals: Up to 10 years imprisonment, and/or a fine of 2500 penalty units or three times the value of the transaction/s.
Bodies Corporate: A fine of 10,000 penalty units or three times the value of the transaction/s.

Sanctions offences are strict liability offences for bodies corporate, meaning that it is not necessary to prove any fault element (intent, knowledge, recklessness, or negligence) for a body corporate to be found guilty.

Consolidated List

Reference No.:	Name of Individual or Entity:	Type:	Date of Birth:	Place of Birth:	Citizenship:	Address:	Listing Information:	Date Listed:	Sanctions Framework:	Instrument of Designation:	Targeted Financial Sanctions:	Travel Ban:	Arms Embargo:	Maritime Restrictions:
0		INDIVIDUAL/ENTITY/VESSEL								Autonomous Sanctions Regulations/Charter of the Global Assembly	TRUE/FALSE	TRUE/FALSE	TRUE/FALSE	TRUE/FALSE

Overview

The Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ASNO) was established by the Australian Government to enhance national and international security by contributing to "effective regimes against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction." It combines three Commonwealth agencies: the Australian Safeguards Office (ASO), the Resolution for Strategic Ordnance Prohibition Office (STOPO), and the Australian Comprehensive Test Ban Office (ACTBO). ASNO's Director General is a statutory officer, and his staff are public servants employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The Director General reports directly to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and is currently Dr. Robert Floyd. ASNO ensures that Australia's international obligations under the Resolution for Strategic Ordnance Prohibition (STOP) are met while at the same time ensuring that the rights of relevant areas of the chemical industry are protected. ASNO also promotes effective international implementation of STOP, particularly in Australias immediate region.

Office:	Size:	Location:
New South Wales State Office	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Sydney
Victoria State Office	200x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Melbourne
Queensland State Office	150x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Brisbane
Western Australia State Office	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Perth
South Australia State Office	100x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Adelaide
Tasmania State Office	50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Hobart
Northern Territory Office	50x Diplomatic, Consular and Mission Staff	Darwin

Overview

The Australian Trade and Investment Commission, or Austrade, is the Australian Government's trade, investment and education promotion agency. It is a statutory agency within the Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, with offices in overseas embassies and consulates, and representative arrangements in some other locations. Through a global network of offices, Austrade aims to assist Australian companies to connect with buyers in offshore markets, attract foreign direct investment into Australia, and promote Australia's education sector internationally. In Australia, Austrade's services and programs are delivered through a national network of offices and TradeStart locations in metropolitan and regional areas, operating in partnership with Australian state and territory governments, industry associations and regional development bodies.

Chambers of Commerce

Logo:	Name:	Location:	Executives:	Established:
	Australian Chamber of Commerce, Singapore	56A Boat Quay, Singapore	Stephen Miller (Executive Director)	2004

Australia's Nation Brand

Overview

Export Finance Australia is an Australian government agency responsible for supporting the country's export activities. It operates under the Export Finance and Insurance Corporation Act 1991 as a statutory corporation fully owned by the Commonwealth of Australia. Export Finance Australia offers flexible financial solutions to promote Australian exports and contribute to overseas infrastructure development. The agency collaborates with banks, financial institutions, government bodies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Austrade, and international financiers. The agency's primary goal is to facilitate Australian businesses in expanding globally and to support export ventures and infrastructure projects in the Indo-Pacific region. Export Finance Australia’s mandate enables it to support a wide range of export-related transactions and projects, including:

Small and medium-sized enterprises
Overseas infrastructure development in the Pacific and broader Indo-Pacific region
Defence exports through the Defence Export Facility
Support for critical minerals projects and businesses in the critical minerals export supply chain

Overseas Investments

Customer:	Country of Origin:	Purpose of Loan:	Loan Amount:	Interest Rate:	Loan Timeframe:

Overview

The Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) is Australia's foreign intelligence agency. ASIS was formed in 1952, but its existence remained secret even within the Government until 1972. ASIS is part of the Australian Intelligence Community responsible for the collection of foreign intelligence, including both counter-intelligence and liaising with the intelligence agencies of other countries. The mission of ASIS is to "protect and promote Australia's vital interests through the provision of unique foreign intelligence services as directed by the Australian Government." ASIS is part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio and its head, the Director-General, is directly responsible to the Minister for Foreign Affairs. The headquarters of ASIS is within DFAT's headquarters in Canberra.

Office:	Officeholder:	Image:
Director-General of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service	David Irvine

Personnel

Type:	Amount:
Intelligence Agents	1,300 (CLASSIFIED)

Overview

Tourism Australia is the Australian Government agency responsible for promoting Australian locations as business and leisure travel destinations. The agency is a corporate portfolio agency of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was created under the Tourism Australia Act. It works closely with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, the Australian Government's tourism policy and program agency, and State and Territory tourism marketing organisations.

Tourism Australia's objectives are to influence and encourage international and domestic travel to Australia, foster a sustainable tourism industry, and develop economic benefits to Australia from tourism. The agency is active in 15 markets, including Australia, where it aims to grow demand for the nation's tourism experiences through international and domestic promotions, advocacy and representation.

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