Today I announce the appointment of Dr Ralph King as Australia's next Ambassador to Israel.
Relations between Australia and Israel are close and longstanding.
Australia was one of first countries to vote in favour of the UN resolution that led to the creation of Israel in 1948, establishing diplomatic relations with the newly formed state in 1949.
The modern-day relationship is sustained by a history of strong personal connections and by the large and vibrant Jewish community in Australia.
Our practical cooperation, including in the fields of security, defence and cyber, continues to deepen. The economic relationship similarly continues to grow, with particular focus on innovation and technology.
Next year marks the 75th anniversary of the creation of the State of Israel, and Australia and Israel will celebrate 75 years of bilateral relations in 2024.
Dr King is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has previously served overseas as Head of Mission in Riyadh, Cairo and Kuwait and as Deputy Head of Mission in Hanoi.
I thank outgoing Ambassador Paul Griffiths for his contributions to advancing Australia's interests in Israel since 2020.
