Today I announce the appointment of Ms Paula Ganly as Australia's next Ambassador to Iraq.
Australia and Iraq have a long history of partnership and cooperation. We stood by Iraq during the Da'esh conflict and continue to work with the Government of Iraq to build a more stable and secure country.
Together with New Zealand, Australian Defence Force personnel have trained more than 47,000 Iraqi security force personnel since early 2015. We have assisted Iraq's recovery through our $100 million humanitarian and stabilisation assistance package. Australia's aid package focuses on assisting vulnerable Iraqis, particularly women, girls and people living with disabilities.
With more than 67,000 Australians born in Iraq, our personal ties are strong.
Ms Ganly is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and was most recently the Executive Director, Diplomatic Academy. Her career reflects a wealth of experience in diplomatic security, consular policy and ministerial support, having worked in DFAT and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
She has previously served overseas in London, Beijing, Hong Kong, Prague, Seoul, Dhaka and Caracas.
I thank outgoing Ambassador Joanne Loundes for her contributions to advancing Australia's interests in Iraq since 2018.
