Australia has appointed Jamie Isbister as its next High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea.

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong announced the appointment today, saying Australia and PNG have never been closer.

She said the Pukpuk Alliance reflects the deep trust between the two countries as neighbours, partners and friends.

Isbister is a senior career officer with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and was most recently Deputy Secretary of the Development, Multilateral and Europe Group.

He has more than 30 years of experience in foreign, humanitarian and development policy.

His previous roles include Australia’s Ambassador for the Environment, Australian Government Humanitarian Coordinator and Minister Counsellor for Development in Africa.

Minister Wong also thanked outgoing High Commissioner Ewen McDonald AM for his contribution to advancing Australia’s interests in Papua New Guinea.