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Kevin Rudd is stepping down from his role as ambassador to the United States to head an international think tank and focus on China analysis.
The former Labor prime minister was appointed as ambassador in 2023 but faced controversy for his previous criticisms of US President Donald Trump.
Trump reclaimed the top job in 2024, complicating the government’s relationship with the ambassador.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Rudd would conclude his posting on 31 March to take up the role of global president of the international relations think tank, the Asia Society.
In addition to his new role, he will lead the society’s Centre for China Analysis.
“As prime minister, I have visited the United States on no less than seven occasions, that is because of the productive work that Kevin Rudd has done across the board,” Albanese told reporters in Canberra on Tuesday.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Rudd had been an excellent ambassador, including by helping Australia secure a critical minerals deal with the US and advancing the AUKUS security pact through which Australia will acquire nuclear-powered submarines from the US.
“Kevin has been an excellent ambassador, we thank him for his tireless contribution to Australia’s national interests over the last three years,” she said alongside the prime minister.
“He has achieved what our most effective ambassadors strive for: building deep and lasting relationships that cross political divides and span multiple administrations, all while keeping Australia’s interests at the forefront,” said a spokesperson.
Albanese denied reports of strained relations between the ambassador and the Trump administration, including a terse exchange between Trump and Rudd during a bilateral meeting with the prime minister when the president was asked about his past criticisms.
“The thing about President Trump is that he looks forward on these issues,” Albanese said.
A replacement will be announced at a later date.
