Australia’s Ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, will resign from his post on March 31, stepping down a year earlier than expected, a move that has been commented on by former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos.
Mr Sinodinos told ABC News he was surprised by the timing of Rudd’s resignation, but described his tenure as highly effective.
“He’s been hard working, and so we should congratulate him for his term there and wish him the best,” Mr Sinodinos said.
“It would be great to hear from Kevin about what prompted him to decide to go at this time, a year early.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the decision to step down was Rudd’s own and paid tribute to his role in strengthening Australia–US relations, advancing the AUKUS pact and helping secure the release of Julian Assange in 2024.
“On behalf of our nation, we thank Kevin for his service to Australia and for taking forward Australia’s interest with our closest security ally,” Albanese said.
Mr Sinodinos highlighted Rudd’s success in streamlining export controls linked to AUKUS, securing a critical minerals partnership with the United States and encouraging greater Australian superannuation investment in the US economy.
Rudd’s tenure also spanned a change of US administration following the re-election of Donald Trump in 2024, a period that at times placed strain on the relationship due to Rudd’s past criticisms of Trump.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong described Rudd as an “excellent ambassador,” thanking him for his “tireless contribution” to Australia’s national interests.
Rudd will take up a new role as global president of the Asia Society, also leading its Centre for China Analysis. The government said an announcement on his successor would be made in due course.
Source: ABC News
