Ambassador Transition: Kevin Rudd Departs, Greg Moriarty Takes the Helm
Kevin Rudd has completed his tenure as Australia's ambassador to the United States, a role he held for three years. He has been succeeded by Greg Moriarty, the former Secretary of the Department of Defence. The transition occurs as the bilateral relationship faces several ongoing issues, including the AUKUS submarine agreement, a proposed US tariff on Australian goods, and differing approaches to China.
Kevin Rudd's Departure
Kevin Rudd resigned as Australia's ambassador to the United States in March 2026, one year earlier than initially planned. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the resignation was Mr. Rudd's decision. Mr. Rudd will assume the role of global president of the Asia Society, an international relations think tank, and head its Centre for China Analysis.
"Mr. Rudd served the nation well," said Foreign Minister Penny Wong, thanking him for his contribution.
During his tenure, Mr. Rudd was credited with advancing the AUKUS pact, securing the release of Julian Assange, and negotiating a Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Framework Agreement.
Mr. Rudd’s past criticisms of President Donald Trump were a notable aspect of his ambassadorship. He had described Mr. Trump in social media posts as a "traitor to the West." In October 2025, during a press conference, President Trump asked Prime Minister Albanese if Mr. Rudd was still ambassador and told Mr. Rudd, "I don't like you either, and I probably never will." Mr. Rudd later stated the incident ended quickly and that his access to the administration improved after the encounter.
Greg Moriarty's Appointment
Greg Moriarty was announced as Mr. Rudd's successor. Mr. Moriarty previously served as Secretary of the Department of Defence for nearly a decade. His prior diplomatic roles include:
- Ambassador to Indonesia (2010–2014)
- Ambassador to Iran (2005–2008)
- Chief of staff to former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull
- Australia's first Counter Terrorism Coordinator
Prime Minister Albanese stated that Mr. Moriarty is uniquely experienced for the Australia-US alliance. The Trump administration was consulted on the appointment, aligning with standard procedure. The appointment was welcomed by government and opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Turnbull and former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos.
AUKUS Submarine Agreement
Assessments of the Project
Speaking after his departure, Mr. Rudd expressed confidence that the AUKUS submarine project will be delivered successfully. He stated that the project has passed the "point of no return" and that there is "zero possibility" of it failing. His confidence was solidified after President Trump declared in October that AUKUS was "full steam ahead." Mr. Rudd noted the project has legislation passed by the US Congress with bipartisan support, and preparatory work is underway at Fleet Base West in Western Australia and Osborne in South Australia.
Ambassador Moriarty stated that every US official he has spoken to has expressed strong support for the AUKUS deal. He acknowledged that US shipbuilding production is "not where they want it to be," with two boats produced last year, but reported that US officials expressed confidence in growing production rates. Australia has contributed over $4 billion to the US industrial base to support increased submarine production.
US-Australia Trade and Tariffs
Proposed Tariff
The Trump administration proposed a 12.5% tariff on Australian goods, up from 10%, citing Australia's alleged failure to enforce a forced labor import prohibition. The proposal is subject to a consultation process.
"Our regime to counter modern slavery and forced labour is one of the strongest in the world," said Ambassador Moriarty.
Ambassador Moriarty stated he will "robustly but respectfully" oppose the proposed tariffs, which he described as "extremely disappointing." He argued the tariff is unjustified and inconsistent with the US-Australia free trade agreement. Australia is preparing a submission to the US Trade Representative (USTR) and is engaging with Australian businesses to support its case.
China, Taiwan, and Regional Security
Kevin Rudd's Views on China and Taiwan
Mr. Rudd stated that China has not surpassed the US as the dominant world power. He said the risks of Chinese military action against Taiwan continue to increase, though he declined to speculate on a timetable. He stated his primary ambition is to influence US-China strategy to prevent conflict over Taiwan.
Regarding President Trump's discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on arms sales to Taiwan, Mr. Rudd said he was not bothered, as Mr. Trump made no changes to US policy.
Australia's Position on Iran
Ambassador Moriarty reiterated Australia's call for a diplomatic resolution to the Iran conflict. He noted Australia's contribution of an E-7 surveillance aircraft to the UAE and said Australia is willing to engage in discussions about future maritime security mechanisms.
Other Issues
Meeting with President Trump
Ambassador Moriarty presented his credentials to President Trump, who called Australia one of his "favourite countries" and Prime Minister Albanese his "good friend." Mr. Moriarty noted that President Trump did not raise Australia's participation in the Iran conflict.
Canadian Prime Minister's Visit
Prime Minister Albanese confirmed that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to visit Australia in March 2026. Mr. Albanese expressed agreement with Mr. Carney's statement that middle powers like Australia and Canada must collaborate.