Rudd successor: Australia picks Washington ambassador

Published: 13 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

Australia faces a crucial decision as Kevin Rudd prepares to leave his role as ambassador in Washington early. The search for a Rudd successor has ignited speculation, with names ranging from former Labor ministers to senior public servants and career diplomats. Rudd, who earned praise for stabilising Australia-US relations, announced his early departure to return to the Asia Society thinktank, leaving a vacancy that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong must fill. Analysts stress that selecting the right Rudd successor is essential to maintain diplomatic continuity and strategic engagement with the United States.

Labor sources suggest that former ministers Joel Fitzgibbon and Stephen Conroy are under consideration. Both served during Rudd’s prime ministership and retain influence in political circles. Fitzgibbon, once defence minister, left parliament before the 2022 federal election and now leads a lobbying and advisory business in Canberra. Conroy, who has been a political commentator and lobbyist, previously criticised US President Donald Trump, creating potential diplomatic sensitivities. Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell could also be a surprise candidate, given his experience navigating the US tariff regime and close ties to Albanese.

Senior public servants remain strong contenders. Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty, formerly Australia’s ambassador to Iran and Indonesia, is considered a highly capable candidate. Moriarty’s expertise in strategic alliances, including the Aukus nuclear submarine agreement, positions him as an attractive choice for sustaining Australia-US collaboration. Jennifer Parker, a defence analyst, highlighted Moriarty’s understanding of alliance mechanisms and influence in advancing strategic initiatives, saying he would be an excellent Rudd successor.

Career diplomat Justin Hayhurst, who recently completed his tenure as ambassador to Tokyo, is another option. Hayhurst has extensive experience in senior public service roles and postings in China and the Philippines, making him well-versed in international relations. Observers note that Hayhurst’s non-partisan profile could offer stability amid a politically charged environment in Washington ahead of the November midterm congressional elections.

The possibility of former Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan being considered underscores the government’s openness to selecting someone with high political stature, though analysts caution that a non-political choice may be more strategically sound. Bruce Wolpe, a senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre, suggested that appointing a senior public servant rather than a former politician could avoid polarising factions within the US political landscape, particularly among Trump supporters. Wolpe cited Dennis Richardson’s appointment from 2005 to 2009 as a model for such a decision.

Political considerations loom large. Conroy’s previous comments describing Trump as “moronically stupid” might complicate his candidacy, whereas Fitzgibbon’s and Farrell’s experience with defence and trade issues could facilitate smoother engagement. Wong emphasised that the selection would prioritise the candidate’s skills and attributes rather than political background. She praised Rudd’s tenure, noting his discipline, intellect, and tireless efforts in advancing Australia’s interests in Washington.

Rudd’s achievements have been recognised across the political spectrum. Former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos lauded his work in advancing critical minerals legislation and promoting Australia’s financial interests, while Joe Hockey commended Rudd’s consistent presence on Capitol Hill and ability to navigate complex US political systems. Analysts agree that Rudd exceeded expectations in maintaining bipartisan cooperation and ensuring strategic objectives were met, reinforcing the importance of appointing a competent Rudd successor.

Albanese has remained cautious regarding speculation, refraining from naming potential candidates, including former Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Morrison’s close relationship with Trump and current role as a defence industry lobbyist could make him a politically sensitive choice. Farrell declined to comment on the role, affirming confidence in the prime minister and foreign minister to select a suitable representative for Australia.

As deliberations continue, the decision over Rudd’s successor will signal the government’s priorities in foreign relations, alliance management, and strategic diplomacy. Whether the appointment falls to a former minister, a seasoned diplomat, or a senior public servant, experts agree that the candidate must be equipped to navigate the complex political and strategic landscape of US-Australia relations. Analysts stress that the incoming ambassador will play a critical role in maintaining momentum on Aukus, trade partnerships, and broader geopolitical collaboration, ensuring that Australia’s voice remains influential in Washington.

Selecting a Rudd successor requires balancing political experience with diplomatic skill, an understanding of strategic alliances, and the ability to engage effectively across both US political parties. The decision will have implications not only for bilateral relations but also for Australia’s long-term strategic positioning in the Indo-Pacific. As the Albanese government evaluates potential candidates, observers expect a careful weighing of credentials, experience, and capacity to sustain the positive trajectory established during Rudd’s tenure. The appointment is likely to be announced in the coming months, concluding a period of careful consideration and signalling Australia’s continued commitment to robust engagement with the United States.

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