Greece’s Minister of the Interior, Theodoros Livanios, met in Athens with The Greek Herald Publisher, Dimitra Skalkos, to discuss issues of critical importance to the Greek diaspora, particularly in Australia.
The conversation centred on two major themes: expanding digital access to government services through Gov.gr and the ongoing reforms aimed at diaspora voting rights.
Minister Livanios confirmed that the government is preparing to roll out a new system that will allow Greeks abroad to access all Gov.gr digital services following a one-time visit to any consulate. During this visit, citizens will obtain secure login credentials (a personal username and password), which will then allow them to conduct all future business online from abroad.
“We are working on digital governance in order to allow people to visit the consulates once, just to get the username and password, and then they will have full access to all Gov.gr services. By the end of the year, it should be ready,” the Minister said.
The development is expected to ease long-standing frustrations of the diaspora, who have often faced delays and difficulties at consulates in Sydney, Melbourne and beyond.
Ms Skalkos welcomed the initiative and highlighted the importance of a clear information campaign to ensure that Greek Australians understand how to access and benefit from the new system.
The discussion also turned to diaspora voting rights ahead of the 2027 national elections. At present, Greeks abroad must still be physically present at designated polling stations in order to cast their vote.
“Right now, as it stands at the law, it’s with physical presence,” the Minister explained.
He noted that further changes will require a parliamentary vote, with around 200 MPs needed to pass legislation that would introduce postal voting, making it possible for Greeks abroad to vote without returning to Greece or attending polling stations.
Ms Skalkos noted the importance of timely and accurate communication to the diaspora, stressing that confusion over past European election processes had left many Greek Australians unable to participate. She emphasised that with the 2027 national elections ahead, clear information will be even more critical.
Other topics raised in the meeting included the government’s broader tax reforms, which involve income tax reductions valued at around €1.6 billion, as well as targeted relief measures for residents in small islands and remote areas.
Minister Livanios also confirmed progress on the long-awaited tax treaty with Australia, which the Greek Government aims to finalise by February 2026. The Prime Minister’s proposed visit to Australia in March was also discussed, with Sydney and Melbourne mentioned as likely destinations.
Both sides emphasised the need for Greek media abroad to be involved in outreach campaigns so that information on reforms, services and voting rights reaches the diaspora community effectively.
The meeting underscored the Greek Government’s commitment to reducing bureaucracy, modernising public services and ensuring that Greeks abroad are able to access their rights more effectively — whether through Gov.gr, taxation agreements, or participation in democratic processes.
