January 2024. Senator Penny Wong: Today I announce the appointment of Mr Benjamin Hayes as Australia’s next Ambassador to the Republic of Poland. The Ambassador to Poland is also accredited to the Czech Republic and the Republic of Lithuania.

Australia’s relationship with Poland is underpinned by a commitment to international security, open trade and strong community links.

Australia and the Czech Republic cooperate closely to advance trade liberalisation and defend the rules-based international order, with a particular focus on cyber affairs and nuclear non-proliferation.

The productive relationship between Australia and Lithuania is underpinned by shared democratic values, a commitment to human rights and open markets, and strong people-to-people ties.

Australia will continue to work with Poland, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and other European Union members to advance our trade and investment priorities.

We will also continue to cooperate with Poland, the Czech Republic and Lithuania to empower Ukraine to resolve Russia’s illegal and immoral invasion on its own terms.

Mr Hayes is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was most recently Assistant Secretary, AUKUS International Engagement Branch. He has also served in several senior roles in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Department of Defence

I thank outgoing Ambassador Lloyd Brodrick for his contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in Poland, the Czech Republic and Lithuania since 2019.