Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
167. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her Department's plans to expand Ireland's diplomatic presence across Australia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [71396/25]
View answerAustralia and Ireland share close and long-standing connections, underpinned by strong people-to-people links. In 2026, we will celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations with Australia and our Missions are engaged in a range of activities both to mark the anniversary and to deepen bilateral engagement and cooperation at multilateral level.
Ireland is currently represented by two Diplomatic Missions in Australia, with an Embassy in Canberra and a Consulate General in Sydney. In early 2026, that representation will increase to three missions when we open a Consulate General in Melbourne. Plans are well under way for the opening of the Consulate and Marie-Claire Hughes has been appointed as Consul General. This will bring Ireland's diplomatic presence to 18 missions in the Asia Pacific region.
The Embassy and the Consulates work to promote and protect Irish interests in Australia, to strengthen political and economic relationships, to support the Irish community and to promote cultural ties and the Irish arts. In addition, our Honorary Consul in Perth provides consular services and assistance to Irish citizens, supports local Irish community efforts and assists in developing trade and economic relations with Western Australia. Our missions also work closely with the State Agencies to promote trade, tourism and inward investment.
