Welcome to the Australian Embassy Vienna

The Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Vienna,               is accredited to Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia,               and to the International Organisations in Vienna.

 

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The benefits of global economic cooperation and rules-based trade: the Australia – EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) - JOINT STATEMENT

On 28 April 2026, the Australian Embassy in Vienna, the Austrian Central Bank (OeNB), the Federal Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the European Commission, the Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO) and the Austrian Economic Chamber (WKO) co‑hosted an event to discuss the landmark Australia – EU Free Trade Agreement (A‑EU FTA), following conclusion of negotiations on 24 March 2026 in Canberra.

The A-EU FTA is a comprehensive, balanced and commercially meaningful agreement that will strengthen bilateral trade and investment, support economic growth and reinforce the shared commitment of Australia and the EU to open and rules-based trade.

In bringing Australia and the EU closer together, the agreement will support our shared efforts to diversify trading relationships and bolster supply chain resilience during global economic uncertainty.

The event, held at the OeNB, was opened by OeNB Governor, Professor Martin Kocher, and Australia’s Ambassador to Austria, Ian Biggs, and featured keynote addresses from the Secretary-General of the Federal Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, Dr Severin Gruber, the Head of Representation of the European Commission in Austria, Mr Patrick Lobis,  the Director of WIFO, Professor Gabriel Felbermayr, and Mr Lachlan Crews from the Australian FTA negotiating team.

An expert panel discussion, moderated by Professor Felbermayr, included representatives from the Federal Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Austrian Chamber of Agriculture, the Australian Embassy in Brussels, the European Commission Representation in Austria and the WKO.

Quote attributable to Professor Martin Kocher, Governor, OeNB:

“Strengthening partnerships with like-minded economies such as Australia is essential in today’s global environment. At a time of growing fragmentation, such agreements send a strong signal in support of open, rules-based trade and closer economic cooperation.”

Quote attributable to H.E. Ian Biggs, Australian Ambassador to Austria:

“The A-EU FTA is central to our shared prosperity and economic resilience, and to the growing partnership between Australia, Austria and the EU. The agreement offers significant opportunities to grow trade and investment between our countries and capitalise on economic synergies, including the energy transition, critical minerals, and in advanced manufacturing and research and innovation.”

Quote attributable to Dr Severin Gruber, Secretary-General, Federal Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism:

“In times of increasing global uncertainty, FTAs such as the one between the EU and Australia play an ever more strategic role. They help mitigate disruptions to international commerce, reduce overreliance on dominant economies, and strengthen overall economic resilience. At the same time, the A-EU FTA forms an important building block for deeper cooperation between the EU and members of the CPTPP agreement, bringing together like-minded partners committed to upholding the rules-based trading system.”

Quote attributable to Mr Patrick Lobis, Head of Representation, European Commission in Austria:

“The EU and Australia may be geographically far apart, but we couldn’t be closer in terms of how we see the world. We are firmly aligned in our values. Together, we can build supply chains that are both secure and sustainable, supporting local communities while upholding high environmental standards.”

Quote attributable to Professor Gabriel Felbermayr, Director, WIFO:

“The trade agreement is comprehensive and deep. WIFO analysis suggests that the medium-run gains for the EU amount to EUR 7 billion per year (0.05 per cent of GDP) and for Austria to about EUR 150 million. Logically, as a proportion of GDP, the gains in the smaller Australian economy are larger than EU gains. In the long-run, gains are even more substantial. In addition to economic gains, the agreement helps promote cooperation in areas where Australia and the EU are already aligned, such as labour and environmental policy.”

 

Anzac Day Dawn Service in Vienna

At dawn on Saturday 25 April, the Australian Embassy in Vienna joined colleagues from the New Zealand Embassy, members of the diplomatic corps, Austrian Government representatives, and the Australian and New Zealand communities to commemorate Anzac Day at a Dawn Service held in front of the Karlskirche.

This year marked 111 years since members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) took part in the Allied landing on the Gallipoli peninsula in present-day Türkiye. Their courage, endurance and mateship forged a lasting legacy and continue to underpin the shared values of Australia and New Zealand today.

At the Dawn Service, we honoured the service and sacrifice of the ANZACs and remembered all those who have served Australia and New Zealand, in times of both war and peace. We also remembered those around the world currently experiencing or still living with the devastation of conflict and war, and reflected on the kind of future we seek to protect – one grounded in freedom, unity and hope.

Read Ambassador Biggs’s Anzac Day Dawn Service remarks here.

The Australian Embassy extends its sincere thanks to all who contributed to the service, including Turkish First Counsellor Mr Cem Ertay for his reflections; Ambassador Dr Hannah Liko for representing the Austrian Government; military chaplain Father Alexander Lapin; Vice‑Lieutenant Markus Trettler for the bugle calls; the Australian and New Zealand musicians who led the national anthems; and the children who participated in the reading of the Ode of Remembrance.

Lest We Forget.

                                       

               

 

Australia’s Direct Aid Program in Bosnia and Herzegovina

We are pleased to announce the 2025–26 recipients of Australia’s Direct Aid Program in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This year, Australia’s Direct Aid Program is supporting the important work of the following civil society organisations:

• BHcrafts – producing sustainable handmade clothing and decorative items crafted by women across Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Udruženje “Snaga žene” – helping women who have experienced trauma as a result of war and post‑war events in Bosnia and Herzegovina through targeted assistance
• Udruženje mladih “Ružičnjaka Los Rosalesa” – working with children and young people with developmental delays to help build the skills needed for independent living
• Udruženje žena “Bubamara”, Banja Luka – organising and facilitating workshops and training to strengthen women’s economic empowerment through agribusiness and handicrafts
• Bosnia and Herzegovina Rugby League Association (Ragbi Liga Klub Fis) – providing an inclusive sporting platform for boys and girls that promotes healthy lifestyles and intercultural dialogue

Through their initiatives, these organisations contribute to women’s empowerment, youth engagement and strengthened community resilience across Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We wish all Direct Aid Program recipients every success as they implement their projects.

 

Conclusion of the Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement

After eight years of negotiations, Australia has secured a landmark trade deal with the European Union, the world’s second largest economy.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen have announced the conclusion of negotiations on the Australia–European Union Free Trade Agreement. The Agreement is a key element of Australia’s growing economic and strategic partnership with the European Union and complements the Australia–EU Security and Defence Partnership.

The Agreement will lower trade and investment barriers between Australia and the European Union, a market of around 450 million people. It demonstrates our shared commitment to open and rules based trade, will help diversify Australia’s trade, and will strengthen Australia’s competitiveness, growth and resilience in an increasingly uncertain global trade environment.

Once the Agreement enters into force, 98 per cent of the current value of Australia’s exports will enter the European Union duty free. Australian farmers and producers will benefit from the elimination of almost all EU tariffs on agricultural products, including wine, nuts, fruit and vegetables honey, olive oil, most dairy products, wheat and barley, and seafood. The Agreement also delivers commercially meaningful new or expanded access for other important agricultural products such as beef, sheep meat, sugar, rice, wheat gluten, skimmed milk powder and natural butter.

Almost all Australian exports of manufactured goods and mineral resources will face zero tariffs into the EU, including critical minerals and hydrogen, supporting Australia’s ambition to become a renewable energy superpower and helping to stabilise global supply chains.

Australian service providers will also benefit from improved market access to the EU, including in financial services, education, tourism and communications, as well as streamlined recognition of professional qualifications.

The Agreement will enter into force following the completion of domestic processes in both Australia and the European Union.

For more see: Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade   

   

 

International Women's Day Breakfast

On 13 March, Ambassador Ian Biggs and Dr Christine Biggs OAM hosted the Australian Embassy’s first International Women’s Day breakfast in Vienna, providing an opportunity to reflect on gender equality as a core Australian value and a pillar of our international engagement.

“Balance the Scales” – the official UN Women Australia theme for International Women’s Day 2026 – highlights the ongoing need to address persistent inequalities and the systemic barriers that continue to hold women and girls back in all areas of life. As Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong has noted, “balancing the scales makes communities, countries, and our region more inclusive and more resilient – and makes us all more secure”.  

In his remarks, Ambassador Biggs highlighted Australia’s long‑standing role as a global leader and champion of gender equality, deeply rooted in Australia’s history and reflected in our international engagement. He underscored that advancing gender equality is central to Australia’s foreign policy and development cooperation, including through our Official Development Assistance, with a strong focus on empowering women, strengthening women’s leadership and rights, and advancing gender equality across the Indo‑Pacific.  

The Embassy was honoured to have H.E. Ms Manizha Bakhtari, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Afghanistan in Vienna, as the keynote speaker. Her reflections were a powerful reminder of the challenges facing women and girls in Afghanistan and beyond, and of the importance of sustained international support and advocacy.

The event concluded with remarks from Ms Carmen Jeitler‑Cincelli, Chair of the Austrian‑Australian Parliamentary Friendship Group, who underscored the importance of continued progress on gender equality in Austria and globally.

Guests included senior members of the diplomatic corps, Austrian government representatives, and gender equality champions from Vienna‑based international organisations, contributing to rich discussions on advancing women’s rights, leadership and economic equality — priorities central to Australia’s International Gender Equality Strategy (2025). 

In the face of backsliding and resistance elsewhere in the world, Australia remains committed to advancing gender equality. On 29 January, the Australian Government announced an additional AUD 50 million in humanitarian assistance for the people of Afghanistan, with a strong focus on women and girls. This brings Australia’s total humanitarian support to Afghanistan since 2021 to AUD 310 million.

By investing in the potential of every woman and girl, Australia continues to work towards a more equal, more just and more hopeful future for all.   

  

 

A historic first for Australia: Australia Day Celebration in Bratislava

On 28 January, Ambassador Ian Biggs, Dr Christine Biggs and members of the Australian Embassy were proud to host the first-ever Australia Day reception in Bratislava. The reception brought together members of the Slovak Government, the diplomatic corps, business representatives and the Australian community and alumni to mark this milestone and celebrate the bilateral relationship. 

It was also an opportunity to look ahead to what promises to be a big year for Australia–Slovakia relations, including a planned visit to Australia by 🇸🇰 Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Juraj Blanár to formally re-open the Slovak Embassy in Canberra, and senior officials’ talks in Bratislava, paving the way for deeper dialogue and cooperation on global issues. 

We were grateful to Slovak State Secretary Vladimír Simoňák from the Ministry of Economy for representing the Slovak Government. His remarks highlighted the strength and future direction of Australia-Slovakia relations, and Slovakia’s commitment to finalising the Australia-EU free trade agreement. We were deeply touched to hear State Secretary Simoňák thank Australia for providing a safe haven to Slovaks after the Second World War.

In his remarks, Ambassador Biggs commended Slovakia for the release of its first Indo-Pacific Strategic Concept at the end of last year and welcomed its commitment to engage more closely with Australia and countries in our region. He highlighted the valuable contributions of the Slovak diaspora to our nation’s social, cultural and economic life. He shared a little-known but powerful story linking our two countries: Ján Jandura Puček, who migrated from Habovka to Australia in 1939, worked at a eucalyptus oil distillery in Tidbinbilla with his father-in-law, and in 1949 became Australia’s first naturalised citizen, illustrating the longstanding people-to-people links between our two countries. 

Ambassador Biggs also remembered 82-year old Slovak-Australian Marika Pogány, a longstanding volunteer in her community, who was tragically killed in the anti-Semitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025. He reiterated that we stand in solidarity with Marika and all Jewish Australians, and affirmed Australia’s commitment to continue to champion our shared values of unity, compassion, and resilience that define us.

The evening showcased modern, multicultural Australia through our cuisine, art and music, while acknowledging our long history – including that of our First Nations peoples, who have lived on and cared for our land for more than 60,000 years.  

First Nations Australia was prominently featured through the National Gallery of Australia Old Masters exhibition celebrating Australia’s great bark artists, alongside the use of native Australian ingredients like wattleseed, strawberry gum and lemon myrtle in our culinary offerings, long used by our First Nations peoples.

Music beautifully underscored the evening, with Slovak-Australian pianist Ryan Bradshaw performing the Slovak and Australian national anthems, joined by Slovak soprano Gabriela Šaturová. Ryan’s rendition of Franz Liszt’s Transcendental Étude No. 10 was a highlight of the evening.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this inaugural celebration such a memorable one!  

 

 

Australia Day Film Screening in Hungary: “Nansie” at the 2026 Budapest International Documentary Film Festival

On 26 January, Ambassador Ian Biggs was delighted to open the film screening of the Australian documentary “Nansie” at the 2026 Budapest International Documentary Festival and to host an Australia Day reception following the film.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Anna Trichet Laurier, Nansie is the deeply moving story of sisters Adelaide and Lucinda who care for their grandmother, Nansie, following her dementia diagnosis. Blending intimate mobile phone footage with hand-held cinematography, the film offers a heartfelt exploration of resilience, humour and the unbreakable bonds of family.

Guests also took part in an engaging Q&A with the filmmaker, who shared insights into the four-year creative process behind the film and its powerful themes. The evening concluded with a reception, bringing together friends of Australia in Hungary, filmmakers and festival guests to celebrate Australian storytelling and Australia Day 2026.

 

 

 

Terrorist Attack at Bondi Beach

The Australian Government has condemned in the strongest terms the anti-Semitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach on 14 December 2025. 

Prime Minister's Media Statement on Meeting of National Cabinet

The Prime Minister today convened a meeting of National Cabinet following the evil anti-Semitic terrorist attack directed at members of the Jewish community celebrating Chanukah at Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

The National Cabinet pledged to eradicate anti-Semitism, hate, violence and terrorism and emphasised Australia’s commitment to national coordination on countering terrorism and violent extremism, social cohesion, resourcing and rhetoric to ensure community safety.

National Cabinet noted the ongoing work across jurisdictions to tackle anti-Semitism such as establishing the National Hate Crimes and Incidents Database, enhancing security of Jewish community and cultural sites, and coordinated work across intelligence and police agencies.

Leaders agreed that strong, decisive and focused action was needed on gun law reform as an immediate action, including renegotiating the National Firearms Agreement, first established after the 1996 Port Arthur tragedy, to ensure it remains as robust as possible in today’s changing security environment.

First Ministers agreed to strengthen gun laws across the nation and have commissioned their Police Ministers and Attorneys-General to develop options, including:

• Accelerating work on standing up the National Firearms Register;
• Allowing for additional use of criminal intelligence to underpin firearms licencing that can be used in administrative licencing regimes;
• Limiting the number of firearms to be held by any one individual;
• Limiting open-ended firearms licencing and the types of guns that are legal, including modifications; and
• A condition of a firearm license is holding Australian citizenship.

Premier Minns and Premier Cook will lead and coordinate this work across jurisdictions.

As an immediate priority, the Australian Government will commence work on potential further Customs restrictions of firearms and other weapons type importations, including 3D printing, novel technology and firearms equipment that can hold large amounts of ammunition.

First Ministers also reiterated their commitment to the Permanent National Firearms Amnesty to reduce the number of unregistered firearms in the community.

NSW Premier Chris Minns, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon, Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett, and Australian Security Intelligence Organisation’s Director-General Security Mike Burgess also briefed the meeting on the latest police intelligence and actions in relation to the incident yesterday.

Leaders agreed that yesterday’s horrific anti-Semitic terrorist attack has no place in Australia and that the evil scourge of anti-Semitism must be eradicated.

This media statement has been agreed by First Ministers and serves as a record of meeting outcomes.

 

From Remembrance to Innovation and Partnerships for the Future - Ambassador Biggs’ visit to Slovenia – 26-27 September 2025

In late September, Ambassador Ian Biggs visited Slovenia for a World War II commemorative event in Otok, near Metlika, and an inspiring program in Maribor, Celje and Novo Mesto – discovering both the rich history and the innovative spirit that connect Australia and Slovenia.  

 

Australia and the Pacific: Culture, Climate and Connection

On 24 September 2025, Australian Ambassador Ian Biggs and Dr Christine Biggs hosted the Embassy’s flagship climate diplomacy event, 'Australia and the Pacific: Culture, Climate and Connection', at Urania Kino in the heart of Vienna. Approximately 150 guests from Austria and the diplomatic community in Vienna attended the event, which centred on a screening of the documentary 'The Forgotten Pacific'. For more information, please click here.

     

 

Australia charing IAEA Board of Governors, 2025-26

Ambassador Ian Biggs, Australia’s Resident Representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is deeply honoured to chair the IAEA Board of Governors for 2025-2026, following the excellent work of Ambassador Matilda Aku Alomatu Osei Agyeman, who undertook the role in 2024-2025. Ambassador Biggs is committed to ensuring that the important work of the IAEA is effective and the discussions productive, in the year ahead.

Australia recognizes the broader benefits that the peaceful uses of nuclear technology can provide to our communities, our nations, and our environment. And we consider it a great privilege to represent the South East Asia and the Pacific (SEAP) group and will continue to partner with the IAEA to support the continued expansion of nuclear science in our region, the Indo-Pacific, and beyond. So far this year, Australia has convened nine IAEA training courses and meetings in support of Member States in our region, and we expect to host over 30 scientific visitors and fellows in several Australian Institutions by the end of 2025. There are Australian experts in over 50 IAEA technical meetings and events in Vienna and further afield. SEAP countries, including Australia, are strongly invested in the Agency’s continuing success.

Australia’s unwavering support for the independence, mandate and technical authority of the IAEA will bolster our approach to chairing the Board. Australia is committed to leading the Board with transparency, integrity and balance. Ambassador Biggs looks forward to being a part of the machinery that will continue to guide and implement honest, norm-fulfilling and evidence-based cooperation.

   

Caption: Ambassador Ian Biggs, Australia’s Resident Representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) elected as Chairperson of the IAEA Board of Governors for 2025-2026. © IAEA

 

Australian Youth Orchestra in Concert

On Sunday, 20 July, the Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO) filled the Golden Hall of the Wiener Musikverein with breathtaking music and youthful energy. Under the brilliant direction of maestro David Robertson and 22-year old Carlo Antonioli, the talented young musicians performed to a full house, captivating the audience with their artistry and passion and receiving standing ovations. The concert featured two exceptional soloists – First Nations artist William Barton on didgeridoo and 17-year-old violinist Christian Li. While William had performed in Vienna previously – at the Ronacher theatre in 1998, it was the first time that William and Christian performed at the Musikverein and the first time a didgeridoo was played in this prestigious venue. Adding to the magic, the AYO’s vibrant tour apparel, designed by Ikuntji Artists, proudly honoured the world’s longest continuous living culture – that of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through colour and sound, the orchestra paid tribute to a rich legacy of music and storytelling that connects the past with the future.

Following their triumph in Vienna, the talented musicians also captivated audiences at the Stefaniensaal in Graz, continuing their inspiring European tour, which includes further performances in Amsterdam, Wiesbaden and Berlin.

 

Remembering Srebrenica 

Australia’s Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and Assistant Minister for International Education, The Hon Julian Hill MP, led an Australian delegation at the 30th anniversary commemoration of the Srebrenica genocide on 11 July. 

Australia remembers the more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys who were killed and 25,000 people who were forcibly removed in the 1995 genocide in Sre-brenica. We honour the survivors who have fought for justice and truth, and we rec-ognise the enduring pain and trauma that so many still carry three decades on. 

Last year, Australia was proud to support the United Nations General Assembly res-olution declaring 11 July the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.

As we stand with Bosnia and Herzegovina to mark this sombre anniversary, let us uphold tolerance and respect and firmly reject hatred, prejudice and violence. May those who were lost rest in peace.

#LestWeForget #Srebrenica30

 

Promoting Trade and Investment Opportunities in Australia: roundtable events with business in Austria, Hungary and Slovenia

In April and June 2025, the Australian Embassy cooperated with key stakeholders in Vienna (Austria), Budapest (Hungary) and Ljubljana (Slovenia) to host three business roundtable events, focused on promoting trade and investment opportunities in Australia. These events brought together a diverse group of prominent companies in Austria, Hungary and Slovenia, with either an existing presence in, or an interest in expanding to the Australian market. These commercial advocacy activities provided a valuable opportunity to network, gain expert insights and exchange views and experiences on doing business in Australia.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with participants particularly appreciating the opportunity to hear insights from business and government into the Australian market, the legislative framework and Australia’s priority sectors. For more information, see here.

  

Caption: Business events held in Vienna, Budapest and Ljubljana, in cooperation with local partners, demonstrated the growing importance and potential for deepening Australia’s trade relationship with Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, and other partners in Europe. © Australian Embassy

 

Graz school shooting

The Australian Embassy is deeply saddened by the devastating shooting at BORG Dreierschützengasse in Graz on 10 June.

On behalf of Australia, we send our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and everyone impacted by this tragedy.

Australia stands with Austria at this difficult time.

 

Diplomats for Equality Vienna Celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia on 17 May 2025

17 May marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT).

On IDAHOBIT, and every day, Australia stands in solidarity with the global LGBTQIA+ community. Together with our diplomatic colleagues in Vienna, we celebrate this year’s theme – “The Power of Communities” – which honours the strength, diversity and resilience of LGBTQIA+ individuals and the communities, organisations, and allies who work tirelessly to defend human rights and promote equality. We remain deeply committed to building a world where everyone can live freely, authentically, and with dignity – regardless of who they are or whom they love.

Read our joint IDAHOBIT statement here.

 

Media release by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs - 13 May 2025

The International Civil Aviation Organization Council has found Russia responsible under international law for the downing of MH17.

Read the full media release by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, here. 

 

Australian Government Statement on Bosnia and Herzegovina - 16 March 2025

The Australian Government is concerned by recent developments that destabilise Bosnia and Herzegovina’s national institutions and inflame ethnic tensions.

Australia recognised Bosnia and Herzegovina in May 1992, shortly after its independence. We continue to strongly support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitutional order, as well as its continued peace and multi-ethnic character.

We welcome all efforts to build and maintain stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the implementation of the 1995 Dayton Peace accord, overseen by the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We call on all political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina to act in the interest of all citizens, and to respect and comply with the decisions of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s institutions including the Constitutional Court. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina destabilisation of national institutions | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

 

Australian Foreign Minister Visit to Vienna -  24 to 26 January 2025

Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, visited Vienna from 24 to 26 January to reiterate Australia’s commitment to working closely with the multilateral organisations in Vienna, and to the bilateral relationship with Austria.

The Minister’s visit program included meetings with Austria’s Chancellor Schallenberg and Labour and Economy Minister Kocher. Minister Wong also met with UNODC Executive Director Ghada Fathi Waly, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, and former OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid. A highlight of the visit was an Australia Day reception at the Federation of Industries, with Australian operatic soprano Alexandra Flood performing the Australian and Austrian national anthems. Read more.