In the
Government of Australia, the 'Minister for Foreign Affairs' is responsible for overseeing the international diplomacy section of the
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Prior to
1970, the office was known as the 'Minister for External Affairs'. The minister is usually one of the most senior members of
Cabinet — the position is equivalent to that of
Secretary of State in the
United States or
Foreign Secretary in the
United Kingdom — as shown by the fact that eleven
Prime Ministers of Australia have also worked as the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The minister is seen as one of the people most responsible for formulating Australia's
foreign policy, as they along with other relevant ministers advise the Prime Minister in developing and implementing foreign policy, and also acts as the government's main spokesperson on international affairs issues. In recent times, the minister also undertakes numerous international trips to meet with foreign representatives and
Heads of State or
Government.
The current Minister for Foreign Affairs is
Alexander Downer, who is the longest-serving Minister for Foreign Affairs in Australian history.
List of Australian Foreign Ministers
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