26 Oct 2018

Australia to build high commission in Tuvalu

7:46 pm on 26 October 2018

Australia is setting up its first high commission in Tuvalu's capital, Funafuti.

Tuvalu Funafuti airport 1500m foreshore beach renourishment.

Tuvalu Funafuti airport 1500m foreshore beach renourishment. Photo: Supplied

Karyn Murray has just been announced as the new high commissioner.

Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Marise Payne said Tuvalu was a priority for Australia's stepped-up engagement in the Pacific.

She said it was one of the first countries to participate in Australia's new Pacific Labour Scheme that commenced on 1 July this year.

Ms Payne also said Australia was looking forward to working closely with Tuvalu as it prepares to host the 50th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' Meeting in 2019.