Australian High Commission, Trinidad and Tobago

Australia’s Traditional Owners have cared for the Great Barrier Reef for thousands of years. Their deep cultural and spiritual connections continue today, as their knowledge and stewardship form an integral part of the Reef’s universal value.

More than 170 Traditional Owner groups are custodians of the Reef and its catchments.

Today, Traditional Owners are:

🤝 shaping Reef policy, governance and projects
🌿 leading culturally grounded, community driven initiatives
💧 taking on ground action to improve water quality, protect habitats and restore the Reef

These efforts are strengthened through government support and strong, respectful partnerships – protecting Sea Country now and for generations to come.

Learn more here: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/about/news/partnering-protect-sea-country.

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Reef Trust AusGov

I was delighted to participate in yesterday’s fund-raising walk/run (I walked!) around the Queen’s Park Savannah, organised by Girls of Impact T&T . There was a great turn-out for a great cause – and the rain held off. In true Trini style, there was music and dancing after the circuit had been completed.

The Australian High Commission is proud to partner with Girls of Impact T&T as it empowers young women across the country.

Sonya

What if AI could help save coral reefs? In 97 countries, it already is.

Coral reefs support 25% of all marine life and more than 500 million people. But climate change is placing these vital ecosystems at risk.
Co-designed by Australia and Pacific partners, ReefCloud is an open-source AI tool that analyses reef health up to 700 times faster than traditional methods. It is helping scientists, Traditional Owner rangers and policymakers better understand and protect what lies beneath. Protecting reefs means protecting our shared future.

Congratulations to Trinidad and Tobago on securing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the second time in 40 years. The Security Council exists to maintain international peace and security in accordance with the principles and purposes of the United Nations.

Trinidad and Tobago obtained 181 votes and highlighted key areas of priority it aims to address during its 2027/28 term.

Release
Trinidad and Tobago Elected to the United Nations Security Council

DFAT is committed to continuing to build respectful relationships and genuine partnerships with First Nations colleagues and communities.

We do this by fostering cultural awareness and safe workplaces and creating opportunities for First Nations People to thrive.

The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2026 – All In – calls on all of us to commit to reconciliation every day.

Through learning, listening and meaningful action, each of us has a role to play.

Yesterday, Australian Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Peace and Security James Buttigieg, accompanied by High Commissioner Sonya Koppe, paid a courtesy call to Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Hon Gaston Browne and met with Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon E.P. Chet Greene.

Discussions focussed on preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting this November and upcoming collaboration between Australia and Antigua and Barbuda.

Last Saturday, Deputy High Commissioner Caitlin McPherson gave remarks during the opening ceremony of Girls of Impact T&T She Leads Climate Advocacy event aimed at equipping 30 young women from Trinidad and Tobago with the tools and knowledge to engage in high level climate change negotiations for Small Island Developing States.

This event reflects values Australia strongly supports and we continue to support the elevation of women in climate change forums.

Yesterday, Australian Assistant Secretary for Multilateral Peace and Security James Buttigieg paid a courtesy call to Permanent Secretary and Head of the Public Service Randall Karim.

Mr. Buttigieg was joined by High Commissioner Sonya Koppe and Deputy High Commissioner Caitlin McPherson.

Discussions comprised Australia’s and Trinidad and Tobago’s UNSC candidacies and anticipations for CHOGM this year.

We’re pleased to deepen our bilateral relationship with TT and look forward to more opportunities for collaboration.

Pleased to be a part of this great initiative alongside Girls of Impact T&T

On May 17, the Australian High Commission marked the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia by attending the CAISO s*x & gender justice, Trinidad & Tobago’s launch of ‘Growing Spaces’ a holistic hub focused on sustainable development and empowerment for LGBTQI+ persons in Trinidad and Tobago.

Australia aknowledges the voices of LGBTQIA+ communities. Equality is a cornerstone of our vibrant democracy. Australia is proud to work to make sure everyone is valued, regardless of their s*xual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or s*x characteristics. Unity is the key to ensuring the universal human rights of all people, and we remain dedicated to our work combating violence, exclusion, and discrimination towards LGBTQIA+ persons.

https://www.dfat.gov.au/international-relations/themes/human-rights/Pages/human-rights

Democracies are strongest when everyone can participate freely and equally. LGBTQIA+ equality and inclusion is at the heart of democracy. Australia stands together in Pride with the LGBTQIA+ community and believes all people, no matter their s*xual orientation, gender identity or expression, or s*x characteristics, deserve freedom, equality and justice. No one should be left behind.

Australia’s commitment to human rights Australia's commitment to human rights reflects our national values and is an underlying principle of Australia's engagement with the international community.