Key facts
- Australia is seeking a two-year term on the UN Security Council for 2029 and 2030.
- Siobhan McKenna, former News Corp head of broadcasting, will be Australia's next consul-general to New York.
- Australia's most recent term on the UN Security Council ended in 2014.
- The vote for the UN council spot will be held in mid-2028.
- Australia's campaign will focus on its role in the Pacific and climate change action.
- Finland is also a nominee for the 2029-2030 seat from the Western European and Others Group.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday that Australia will bid for a two-year term on the United Nations Security Council for 2029 and 2030. The announcement came during his visit to New York for the UN General Assembly. Albanese also revealed that Siobhan McKenna, formerly the head of broadcasting at News Corp, will assume the role of Australia's next consul-general to New York.
Albanese stated that Australia's involvement in the Security Council would allow it to play a key role in shaping global responses to issues affecting Australians, such as artificial intelligence and climate change. He expressed confidence in strong support from Pacific island countries and Southeast Asia, citing his "strong relationships" with world leaders.
Australia has previously served on the Security Council five times, with its most recent term ending in 2014. Finland is also a nominee for the 2029-2030 seat from the Western European and Others Group. The vote to select non-permanent members for that term is expected to take place by secret ballot in 2028.
McKenna, who currently chairs Australia Post and previously chaired NBN, is expected to bring significant financial and economic expertise to her new role.