Minister for Foreign Affairs (Australia)
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In the Government of Australia, the Minister for Foreign Affairs is responsible for overseeing the international diplomacy section of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Prior to 1970, the office was known as the Minister for External Affairs. The minister is usually one of the most senior members of Cabinet — the position is equivalent to that of Secretary of State in the United States or Foreign Secretary in the United Kingdom — as shown by the fact that eleven Prime Ministers of Australia have also worked as the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The minister is seen as one of the people most responsible for formulating Australia's foreign policy, as they along with other relevant ministers advise the Prime Minister in developing and implementing foreign policy, and also acts as the government's main spokesperson on international affairs issues. In recent times, the minister also undertakes numerous international trips to meet with foreign representatives and Heads of State or Government.
The current Minister for Foreign Affairs is Alexander Downer, who is the longest-serving Minister for Foreign Affairs in Australian history.
