31 July 2025 – Canberra: The governments of Japan and Australia held their 5th Consular Consultation, marking a continued commitment to protecting nationals and fostering deeper bilateral engagement.
Representing Japan was Mr. IWAMOTO Keiichi, Assistant Minister and Director-General of the Consular Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Australia’s delegation was led by Ms. Elizabeth McGregor, First Assistant Secretary from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Consular and Crisis Management Division.
Discussions revolved around expanding people-to-people exchanges, particularly as the two nations approach the 50th anniversary of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Co-operation in 2026. Officials agreed to strengthen cooperation in areas such as working holiday programs and safeguarding citizens involved in incidents or emergencies abroad.
Both sides also addressed coordination for evacuating their nationals from third countries during crises—a priority reaffirmed during the 2024 Japan-Australia 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Consultations.
The next consular consultation will take place in Tokyo, with scheduling to be confirmed through diplomatic channels.