Former Minister Dispatched to Represent Australia at OECD

Labor’s former assistant treasurer who quit politics earlier this year, returns to public service as ambassador to the Paris-based economic forum.

Australia's former Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones speaks to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Nov. 7, 2022. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

Long serving MP and former assistant treasurer, Stephen Jones, has been appointed Australia’s new ambassador to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris.

The announcement comes just months after Jones stepped away from politics, having served as the member for Whitlam for over a decade.

Jones entered federal politics in 2010 and rose through Labor’s ranks to become assistant treasurer following the party’s 2022 election win.

He resigned from Parliament in January this year, citing a desire to pursue opportunities outside political life.

However, his return to public service has been swift, with Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirming his appointment in a release issued on July 6.

In a joint statement, Chalmers and Wong said Jones would bring deep knowledge and valuable experience to the OECD role, describing him as a seasoned policymaker who had made “important contributions to strengthening Australia’s superannuation and financial systems, improving tax integrity and modernising our markets.”

Key Role in Global Engagement

As ambassador, Jones will head Australia’s permanent delegation to the OECD, which includes representatives from Treasury, Foreign Affairs, Health, Education, Industry, Agriculture, and the Australian Taxation Office.

His new position places him at the heart of global economic policymaking at the OECD, which is headquartered in Paris, and led by former Liberal Finance Minister Mathias Cormann.

Australia’s engagement with the forum will include discussions on tax reform, international trade, education, climate policy, and sustainable development.

Jones will take up his post in September.

5 More Senior Diplomatic Postings Announced

Alongside Jones’ appointment, the Albanese government unveiled five new senior diplomatic postings.

Marc Innes-Brown has been named ambassador to the Philippines, while Miles Armitage will serve in Saudi Arabia.

Matthew Duckworth has been appointed High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, and Sally-Anne Vincent will take up the role of ambassador to Turkey. A new ambassador to Denmark was also named.

“These appointments reflect the importance of Australia’s relationships with key partners, especially in today’s challenging global environment,” Foreign Minister Wong said.

“Our diplomats play a critical role in supporting Australians abroad, creating opportunities for businesses, and advancing our national interests on the world stage.”