Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially announced the appointment of Defence Department secretary Greg Moriarty as Australia's next ambassador to the United States. This significant diplomatic move sees Moriarty stepping into the prestigious Washington role, replacing outgoing ambassador Kevin Rudd, whose tenure concludes at the end of March 2026.
A Seasoned Diplomat Takes the Helm
Prime Minister Albanese revealed the recommendation during an appearance on ABC's Insiders program, confirming that the standard diplomatic protocols had been observed, including consultation with the Trump administration. Albanese expressed strong confidence in Moriarty's capabilities, stating, "I know Mr Moriarty very well, and I have been impressed by the dignified way in which he handles himself."
Greg Moriarty brings a wealth of experience to this critical position. He has served as Defence secretary for nearly a decade, demonstrating leadership in national security matters. His career also includes serving as chief of staff to former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, providing him with intimate knowledge of high-level government operations.
Extensive International Experience
Moriarty's diplomatic credentials are particularly noteworthy. He has previously represented Australia as ambassador to both Indonesia and Iran, gaining valuable insights into complex international relationships. Additionally, he has held senior roles in counter-terrorism, further solidifying his expertise in global security issues.
This appointment marks a significant departure from recent tradition. Moriarty becomes the first non-political figure to assume the Washington ambassadorship since 2010, when Dennis Richardson concluded his tenure. For over a decade, the role has been occupied by prominent political figures including former Labor leader Kim Beazley, former Liberal treasurer Joe Hockey, former Liberal minister Arthur Sinodinos, and currently, former prime minister Kevin Rudd.
Navigating Diplomatic Challenges
Moriarty will assume his responsibilities during a period of considerable diplomatic strain between the United States and several Western allies. This tension has been fueled by multiple factors including President Donald Trump's tariff campaigns, controversial demands regarding Greenland's sovereignty, and recent remarks that appeared to downplay the role of NATO allies in the Afghanistan conflict.
The incoming ambassador will need to draw upon his extensive experience to navigate these complex international dynamics while strengthening the crucial Australia-US relationship.
Paying Tribute to Kevin Rudd's Legacy
Prime Minister Albanese took the opportunity to acknowledge the substantial contributions of outgoing ambassador Kevin Rudd. Describing Rudd's tenure as "tireless and highly consequential for Australia's global standing," Albanese highlighted several key achievements.
Rudd's diplomatic accomplishments include:
- Developing comprehensive relationships across the US political spectrum, including Congress, the Senate, and both Democratic and Republican members
- Strengthening Australia's economic and strategic ties with the United States
- Maintaining crucial momentum on the AUKUS security agreement
- Securing bipartisan US congressional approval for AUKUS legislation
- Helping maintain presidential backing under both Joe Biden and Donald Trump
- Playing a critical role in resolving the long-running Julian Assange case
Albanese emphasized that Rudd's efforts helped reinforce trust between the two nations, despite occasional complications arising from Rudd's strained personal history with President Trump. The prime minister consistently maintained that the strength of the Australia-US alliance transcends individual personalities.
Rudd's Next Chapter
Following his departure from the ambassadorship, Kevin Rudd will transition to a new international role as global president of the Asia Society. In this capacity, he will also lead the organization's Centre for China Analysis, continuing his engagement with critical geopolitical issues.
Rudd expressed gratitude for his ambassadorial experience in a social media post, stating it had been "an honour to serve as Australia's Ambassador to the United States over the last three years."
Greg Moriarty is expected to commence his duties as Australia's ambassador to the United States following Kevin Rudd's formal departure at the end of March 2026. His appointment represents a strategic choice by the Australian government to place a career diplomat with extensive security and international relations experience into one of the nation's most important overseas postings.
