LEX 12017 Documents Part1.pdf

DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
LEX 12017
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Departmental No. ?????
Minute Paper for the Executive Council
__________________
Subject
Executive Council
Meeting No. ..................................
The Constitution
Termination of Appointment and Commission of
Appointment of Ambassador of Australia to
the Kingdom of Belgium
Recommended for the approval of Her Excellency the
Governor-General in Council that she:
(a)
terminate the appointment of Caroline Jane Millar as
Ambassador of Australia to the Kingdom of Belgium
Approved in Council
on and from a date to be determined by the Minister
for Foreign Affairs;
(b)
appoint, by Commission in the attached form,
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC to be
Ambassador of Australia to the Kingdom of Belgium
………………………….
on and from a date to be determined by the Minister
for Foreign Affairs, being a date not earlier than the
Sam Mostyn AC
date on which the appointment of Caroline Jane Millar
Governor-General
shall terminate and subject to agrément being received
from the Kingdom of Belgium;
(c)
authorise that
………………………..
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC be paid
such salary and allowances as may be determined from
Filed in the Records
time to time by the Minister for Foreign Affairs; and
of the Council
(d)
authorise that the appointment of
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC be
subject to such other terms and conditions as may be
approved from time to time by the Minister for
……………………….. .
Foreign Affairs.
Secretary to the Executive Council
Penny Wong
Minister for Foreign Affairs
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COMMISSION OF APPOINTMENT OF
AMBASSADOR OF AUSTRALIA TO
THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM

I, the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of
Australia, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council and in the
exercise of all powers me thereunto enabling, appoint

GENERAL (RTD) ANGUS JOHN CAMPBELL AO, DSC

to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Australia to the Kingdom
of Belgium on and from such day as is determined by the Minister for Foreign
Affairs.

Signed and Sealed with the

Great Seal of Australia on

2024
Sam Mostyn AC

Governor-General

By Her Excellency’s Command

Penny Wong
   Minister for Foreign Affairs

ENTERED ON RECORD by me, in Register of Patents No.             page        , on

Secretary to the Federal Executive Council
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EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM

Minute No. xx of 2024 - Minister for Foreign Affairs
Subject-
The Constitution
Termination of Appointment and Commission of Appointment of Ambassador of
Australia to the Kingdom of Belgium
The purpose of this instrument is to make a diplomatic appointment.

The power to appoint Australian diplomatic and consular representatives is exercisable by the
Governor-General by virtue of Chapter II of the Constitution which provides, among other
things, that the executive power of the Commonwealth is vested in the King and His Heirs and
successors and is exercisable by the Governor-General.
The Minute recommends the termination of the appointment of Caroline Jane Millar as
Ambassador of Australia to the Kingdom of Belgium, from a date to be determined by the
Minister for Foreign Affairs, and the appointment of General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO,
DSC as Ambassador of Australia to the Kingdom of Belgium subject to agrément being received
from the Kingdom of Belgium. The granting of agrément by the receiving State for the person a
sending State proposes to accredit as head of mission is a requirement of the Vienna Convention
on Diplomatic Relations, to which Australia is a party. The agrément of the Kingdom of
Belgium will be sought for this appointment. The Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium is
concurrently accredited to the European Union, the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation and the
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The Minute also seeks authority for the Minister for Foreign
Affairs to determine the salary, allowances and other terms and conditions to apply to this
appointment.
General Campbell is expected to take up his position in January 2025, succeeding Ms Millar who
has been Ambassador since 2021. Ms Millar will return to Canberra at the completion of her
posting and take up a senior position in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

General Campbell was most recently Chief of the Australian Defence Force (2018-2024). He has
previously served as Chief of the Australian Army (2015-2018); Commander Joint Agency
Taskforce Operation Sovereign Borders, Department of Home Affairs (2013-2015); Deputy
Chief of the Australian Army (2012-2013); Major General Middle East Area of Operations,
Department of Defence (DoD) (2011-2012); Major General Military Strategic Commitments,
DoD (2010-2011); Deputy Secretary and Deputy National Security Adviser, Department of the
Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) (2009-2010); and First Assistant Secretary, Office of
National Security, PM&C (2005-2009).
General Campbell holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons), University of New South Wales (1985)
and a Master of Philosophy in International Relations, Cambridge University (1993).
General Campbell is suitable for appointment as Ambassador for Australia to the Kingdom of
Belgium by virtue of his prior experience and relevant background.
General Campbell’s curriculum vitae is attached.

The Minute recommends that the appointment be made in the form proposed.

Authority: Chapter II of the Constitution
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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name:
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC

Address:
c/- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Date of birth:
s 47F(1)

Most recent position:
Chief of the Australian Defence Force

Educational and
professional qualifications:  Bachelor of Science (Hons), University of New South Wales
(1985)

Master of Philosophy in International Relations, Cambridge
University (1993)

Relevant language skills:
N/A
Relevant experience:
2018 – 2024:  Chief of the Australian Defence Force

2015 – 2018:  Chief of the Australian Army

2013 - 2015:   Commander Joint Agency Taskforce
Operation Sovereign Borders, Department of
Home Affairs

2012 – 2013:  Deputy Chief of the Australian Army

2011 – 2012:  Major General Middle East Area of
Operations, Department of Defence (DoD)

2010 – 2011:  Major General Military Strategic
Commitments, DoD

2009 - 2010:  Deputy Secretary and Deputy National
Security Adviser, Department of the Prime
Minister and Cabinet (PM&C)

2005 - 2009:  First Assistant Secretary, Office of National
Security, PM&C

2

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent:
Tuesday, 20 August 2024 11:10 AM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Cc:
Subject:
HOM Brussels
Attachments:
Angus Campbell CV.docx

Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Please see CV a ached for the next HOM Brussels (Angus Campbell) scheduled to start post in January 2025. As
normal, this needs to be  ghtly held, please.

Grateful if you would prepare ExCo papers and we will advise when the appointment has been approved by FM and
PM (minsub is currently with FMO). We would like to aim for ExCo mee ng 12 September 2024, however, please
hold sending dra s to ExCo un l FM/PM approval.

You will see in the a ached CV we are missing the university dates, please reach out to the COO on
s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au for the relevant informa on as COO will be able to contact Mr Campbell.

Outgoing HOM will return to DFAT at the conclusion of her pos ng and take up a senior posi on.

Please let me know if there is anything I can assist with.

Kind regards
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________________
Program Manager – Interna onal | SES HOM Services Sec on
People Opera ons Branch | People Division
Department of Foreign Aﬀairs and Trade
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name:
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC

Address:
c/- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)

Date of birth:
s 47F(1)

Most recent position:
Chief of Australian Defence Force

Educational and
professional qualifications:  Bachelor of Science (Hons), University of New South Wales

Master of Philosophy in International Relations, Cambridge
University

Relevant language skills:
Nil
Relevant experience:
2018 – 2024:  Chief of the Australian Defence Force

2015 – 2018:  Chief of the Australian Army

2013 - 2015:   Commander Joint Agency Taskforce
Operation Sovereign Borders, Department of
Home Affairs

2012 – 2013:  Deputy Chief of the Australian Army

2011 – 2012:  Major General Middle East Area of
Operations, Defence

2010 – 2011:  Major General Military Strategic
Commitments, Defence

2009 - 2010:  Deputy Secretary and Deputy National
Security Adviser, Prime Minister and Cabinet

2005 - 2009:  First Assistant Secretary, Office of National
Security, Prime Minister and Cabinet

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent:
Tuesday, 20 August 2024 2:39 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Subject:
RE: Further information

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
BSc 1981-85
MPhil 1992-93
Graduate, Aust staff college 1996.

Can you confirm that is everything that you need?

Thanks

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2024 2:30 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: Further information

Thank yous 22(1)(a)(ii)

Kind regards
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2024 2:14 PM
To:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: Further information

Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii)

I’ve fol owed up and will confirm when I have those details.
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, August 20, 2024 1:53 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: Further information

Good afternoons 22(1)(a)(ii)

Pending the FM/PM sign-off, I am pre-preparing the paperwork for the next HOM Brussels and require the years
that he completed his studies:

Bachelor of Science (Hons), University of New South Wales
Master of Philosophy in International Relations, Cambridge University

I would be grateful for your assistance in seeking the required information.

Thank you

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii) @pmc.gov.au>
Sent:
Friday, 25 October 2024 6:12 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Cc:
Exco
Subject:
RE: s 47C(1)

Attachments:
s 47C(1)

His 22(1)(a)(ii)

Thank you for sending the papers through – and for your call earlier! s 47C(1)

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns. Have a lovely weekend.

Kind regards,
s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| Assistant Director
Legal Information Integrity | Cabinet Division
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
p.s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Ngunnawal Country, One National Circuit Barton ACT 2600 | PO Box 6500  CANBERRA ACT 2600
e.s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@pmc.gov.au   w. pmc.gov.au

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Friday, 25 October 2024 5:47 PM
To: s 22(1)(a) @pmc.gov.au>
Subjec
(ii) t: s 47C(1)

Importance: High

Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 47C(1)
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s 47C(1)
Thanks so much.

Kind regards
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
Department of Foreign Aﬀairs and Trade
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

dfat.gov.au | X | Facebook | Instagram  | LinkedIn

© Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024)
We acknowledge the Tradi onal Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their con nuing connec on to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to al  First Na ons peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

______________________________________________________________________
IMPORTANT: This message, and any attachments to it, contains information
that is confidential and may also be the subject of legal professional or
other privilege. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, you
must not review, copy, disseminate or disclose its contents to any other
party or take action in reliance of any material contained within it. If you
have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by
return email informing them of the mistake and delete all copies of the
message from your computer system.
______________________________________________________________________
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent:
Monday, 28 October 2024 12:10 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Subject:
y to you
]
Attachments:
s 47C(1)
Importance:
High

Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii)
s 47C(1)
Thank you again for all your help – we make miracles happen!

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
Jonathan Muir
Sent:
Friday, 25 October 2024 7:18 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Subject:
Fwd: Letter from the Foreign Minister - Ambassador to the European Union, North
Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium and Luxembourg
Attachments:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)  - Signed by FM.pdf
Follow Up Flag:
Follow up
Flag Status:
Flagged

From: "Tom Mooney" <xxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Date: Friday 25 October 2024 at 6:01:55 pm
To: "Jan Adams" <xxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: "Clare Walsh" <xxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, "Jonathan Muir"
<xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: FW: Letter from the Foreign Minister - Ambassador to the European Union, North
Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium and Luxembourg


Hi Jan

As discussed earlier, we are in a position to proceed with ExCo approval of the appointment
of the Ambassador to the European Union, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium and
Luxembourg.

Attached is the letter sent by the FM to the PM, and below response from the PMO.

Cheers

Tom
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From: zz [External] xxxxx.xxxxxxx@xx.xxx.xx <xxxxx.xxxxxxx@xx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Monday, September 9, 2024 4:14 PM
To: Tom Mooney <xxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: Letter from the Foreign Minister - Ambassador to the European Union, North
Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium and Luxembourg



Thanks Tom
Flagged to PM.
No problems with that proposed appointment. Please proceed.
Kathy

From: Tom Mooney <xxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Thursday, 5 September 2024 6:12 PM
To: Klugman, Kathy <xxxxx.xxxxxxx@xx.xxx.xx>
Subject: Letter from the Foreign Minister - Ambassador to the European Union, North
Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium and Luxembourg




Dear Kathy

Please find attached a letter to the Prime Minister concerning the proposed appointment to
the role of Ambassador to the European Union, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Belgium
and Luxembourg.
2
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Please let us know if you need anything further.

All the best

Tom

Tom Mooney
Chief of Staff to Senator the Hon Penny Wong
Leader of the Government in the Senate
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Labor Senator for South Australia

E xxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx | P Adelaide s 22(1)(a)(ii)  | P Canberra (s 22(1)(a)(ii)  | Ms 22(1)(a)(ii)
______________________________________________________________________
IMPORTANT: This message, and any attachments to it, contains information
that is confidential and may also be the subject of legal professional or
other privilege. If you are not the intended recipient of this message, you
must not review, copy, disseminate or disclose its contents to any other
party or take action in reliance of any material contained within it. If you
have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by
return email informing them of the mistake and delete all copies of the
message from your computer system.
______________________________________________________________________
3
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent:
Monday, 25 November 2024 10:07 AM
To:
Caroline Millar
Subject:
CV - new HOM Brussels
Attachments:
CV - Brussels.DOCX

Dear Caroline,

ExCo approved the nomination of the new HOM Brussels on 7 November 2024.  A Protected cable has been sent to
you (HOM only) on low, requesting post seek agrément from the government of the Kingdom of Belgium – cable
reference s 22(1)(a)(ii)

To assist in preparing the third person note, please see CV attached for the new HOM.

I would be very grateful if you would let me know you have received the cable and this email.

If the MFA request passport details for new HOM please contact the HOM SES unit directlys 22(1)(a)(ii)@dfat.gov.au.

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P +s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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CURRICULUM VITAE

Name:
General (Rtd) Angus John Campbell AO, DSC

Address:
c/- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Date of birth:
s 47F(1)

Most recent position:
Chief of the Australian Defence Force

Educational qualifications:  Bachelor of Science (Hons), University of New South Wales
(1985)

Master of Philosophy in International Relations, Cambridge
University (1993)
Relevant experience:
2018 – 2024:  Chief of the Australian Defence Force

2015 – 2018:  Chief of the Australian Army

2013 - 2015:   Commander Joint Agency Taskforce
Operation Sovereign Borders, Department of
Home Affairs

2012 – 2013:  Deputy Chief of the Australian Army

2011 – 2012:  Major General Middle East Area of
Operations, Department of Defence (DoD)

2010 – 2011:  Major General Military Strategic
Commitments, DoD

2009 - 2010:  Deputy Secretary and Deputy National
Security Adviser, Department of the Prime
Minister and Cabinet (PM&C)

2005 - 2009:  First Assistant Secretary, Office of National
Security, PM&C

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BIOGRAPHCIAL DETAILS

General Campbell was most recently Chief of the Australian Defence Force (2018-2024).
He has previously served as Chief of the Australian Army (2015-2018); Commander Joint
Agency Taskforce Operation Sovereign Borders, Department of Home Affairs
(2013-2015); Deputy Chief of the Australian Army (2012-2013); Major General Middle
East Area of Operations, Department of Defence (DoD) (2011-2012); Major General
Military Strategic Commitments, DoD (2010-2011); Deputy Secretary and Deputy National
Security Adviser, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) (2009-2010);
and First Assistant Secretary, Office of National Security, PM&C (2005-2009).
General Campbell holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons), from the University of New South
Wales (1985) and a Master of Philosophy in International Relations, from Cambridge
University (1993).

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Title:
Agrément - New Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium
MRN:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)

To:
Brussels

Cc:
From:
Canberra
s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From File:  s 22(1)(a)(ii)
EDRMS
Files:

References:
Response:   Priority, Requires Action


For HOM

The appointment of General (Rtd) Angus Campbell AO, DSC as the next HOM Belgium was
approved by the Governor-General in Council on 7 November 2024. Subject to the grant of
agrément by the Government of Belgium, General Campbell will assume the role in January
2025.

2. Please seek agrément from the Government of Belgium, drawing on the CV which will be
sent by separate email. At the same time, please seek agrément for non-resident accreditation
from the government of Luxembourg. We would appreciate post's cabled advice of the date
agrément is sought and obtained from each country.

3. For the letters of credence and recall that we will prepare in due course, grateful
confirmation that the Heads of State and relevant international organisations should be
referred to as follows:

Belgium - His Majesty King Philippe, King of Belgians, and that he should be addressed as
"Your Majesty"

Luxembourg - His Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, and that he should be
addressed as "Your Royal Highness"

European Council - His Excellency Mr Charles Michel, President of the European Council
and that he should be referred to as "Your Excellency"

European Commission - Her Excellency Ms Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European
Commission and that she should be referred to as "Your Excellency"

NATO - His Excellency Mr Mark Rutte, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty
Organisation and that he should be referred to as "Dear Secretary General".

4. If any of the details above are not current, grateful advice as soon as possible, as well as
ensuring the Head of Government/Head of State list is updated.


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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

5. Please limit responses to this cable to the original distribution only, and exercise
maximum discretion in handling the nomination until the official announcement by the
Foreign Minister.

text ends

Sent by:  s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Prepared
by:
Approved  Jonathan Muir
by:
Special
Sensitive Information/Australian HOM HOP Agrement
Dist:
▼New Distribution




s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent:
Monday, 25 November 2024 10:03 AM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Cc:
Subject:
RE: Brussels & next appointments

Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Yes that’s confirmed – January 2025.
Thanks

s 22(1)(a)
As
(ii)sistant Director - International
SES/HOM Services Section (SHS)
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Monday, November 25, 2024 9:59 AM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: Brussels & next appointments

Thanks s 22(1)(a)(ii) I’m about to send now but can you confirm they are still wanting a January start?

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Friday, November 22, 2024 5:08 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: Brussels & next appointments

Good afternoon s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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Very pleased to say Brussels can now progress. I would be grateful if you send a quick email when this is actioned.
Thank you so much for your assistance on this.

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Assistant Director - International
SES/HOM Services Section (SHS)
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, November 19, 2024 1:45 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: Brussels & next appointments

His 22(1)(a)(ii)

Unfortunately, there’s no update on Brussels or any other appointment.  I’ll be sure to let you know as soon as
things are ready to action.

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Director | SES HOM Services Sec on
People Opera ons Branch | People Division
T s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, 19 November 2024 1:16 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: Brussels & next appointments

Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Just checking in to see if there is any progression for Brussels yet? We are still on hold with the cable.

Also, is there any movement on the next batch for Exco? Drafts are due to exco tomorrow for making it into the
second last meeting, so I suspect that won’t make it and we will be aiming for the last Exco meeting of the year?

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
Ps 22(1)(a)(ii)

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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

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DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
Caroline Millar
Sent:
Tuesday, 26 November 2024 8:53 AM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Subject:
Re: CV - new HOM Brussels

Thanks s 22(1)(a)(ii)No probs at all.  We’ll do both.  s 47C(1)

  C

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Date: Monday, 25 November 2024 at 22:40:48
To: "Caroline Millar" <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: CV - new HOM Brussels


Hi Caroline,

!00% please go ahead and seek agrément for the EU as well. I was going by past practice in cables whereby it wasn’t
mentioned in the agrément tasking so I assumed it was similar to those organisations where we just advise of our
candidate and not seek agrément as such.

Apologies for the misunderstanding.

Do you have a sense of how long agrément will likely take? s 22(1)(a)(ii)
. I am
conscious that the Governor-General will be on leave between 14 December to 14 January so getting credentials
papers signed will be logistically tricky.

Thanks Caroline.

Kind regards
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________
Protocol Officer | Diplomatic and Consular Accreditation Section
Protocol and Events Branch | Executive Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)


From: Caroline Millar <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Monday, November 25, 2024 4:32 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: Re: CV - new HOM Brussels


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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Thanks. Yes, cable and email received.  Once in the office this am we will seek agrement from Belgium.

Quick question: any reason why the cable did not also ask us to seek agrement concurrently from the EU - as I
previously suggested tos 22(1)(a)(ii)  Our protocol officer has checked that this is not a problem.  s 47E(d)



Cheers

Caroline


From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Date: Monday, 25 November 2024 at 00:06:49
To: "Caroline Millar" <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: CV - new HOM Brussels




Dear Caroline,

ExCo approved the nomination of the new HOM Brussels on 7 November 2024.  A Protected cable
has been sent to you (HOM only) on low, requesting post seek agrément from the government of
the Kingdom of Belgium – cable references 22(1)(a)(ii)

To assist in preparing the third person note, please see CV attached for the new HOM.

I would be very grateful if you would let me know you have received the cable and this email.

If the MFA request passport details for new HOM please contact the HOM SES unit directly
s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au.

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
______
Protocol Officer | Diplomatic and Consular Accreditation Section
Protocol and Events Branch | Executive Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
Caroline Millar
Sent:
Tuesday, 24 December 2024 5:53 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Jonathan Muir; s 22(1)(a)
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
(ii)
Cc:
Natalie Roche; David Brightling; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Subject:
Re: Brussels update - agrément received

Team - the problem is we cannot send the cable on this as the special distro at your end - which the cable
insists we do not change - will not allow us to without a change the system itself does not permit. If we
insert the Protocol agrement/credentials topic it will send but to a slightly wider group.  HOM, A/g DHOM,
SAO and IT London spent hours on this to no avail yesterday.  Let us know if you are comfortable with us
using the Protocol distro. This appointment is no longer exactly a secret… Tks. Caroline

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Date: Monday, 23 December 2024 at 22:26:04
To: "s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>,
"Jonathan Muir" <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, "s 22(1)(a)
@dfat.gov.au>,
@dfat.gov.au> (ii)
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Cc: "Natalie Roche" <xxxxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, "David Brightling" <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>,
"Caroline Millar" <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: Re: Brussels update - agrément received

Thankss 22(1)(a)(ii)

This is great news - PPD will commence arrangements for Angus on the basis of the advice you have
provided below.
s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: "s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Date: Tuesday, 24 December 2024 at 3:51:04 AM
To: "s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, "Jonathan Muir"
<xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, "s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)

@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: "Natalie Roche" <xxxxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, "David Brightling" <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>,
"Caroline Millar" <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: Brussels update - agrément received [SEC=OFFICIAL]

1
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OFFICIAL

Hi again everyone,

We’ve had technical issues with trying to send a reply to the original tasking reftel and a more ‘formal’ reply than my
email below.

We’ve not had success in resolving through technical discussions with RTOs at this time. In anticipation that this
may not be a quick ‘fix’ tomorrow (24/12), grateful advice on anything else you might like me to do from this side in
respect of the news that we’ve shared.

Thanks in advance.

Kind regards,
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Counsellor (Administration) and Consul-General
Australian Embassy, Brussels

Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg and Mission to the European Union and NATO
Level 7, Avenue des Arts 56, 1000 Brussels Belgium

dfat.gov.au | X | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

© Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024)
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging.





From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Sent: Monday, December 23, 2024 1:12 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>;
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)

@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Natalie Roche <xxxxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>s 22(1)(a)(ii)
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: FW: Brussels update - agrément received [SEC=OFFICIAL]

OFFICIAL

Dear all,

Post has today (23/12) received agrément from the Belgian authorities for the appointment of HOM-Designate.

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We will also send a cable to confirm (and in reply to original tasking to seek this).

Kind regards,

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Counsellor (Administration) and Consul-General
Australian Embassy, Brussels

Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg and Mission to the European Union and NATO
Level 7, Avenue des Arts 56, 1000 Brussels Belgium

dfat.gov.au | X | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

© Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024)
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging.






From: "Caroline Millar" <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Date: Monday, 23 December 2024 at 15:58:45
To: "s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>, "David Brightling"
<xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, "Jonathan Muir" <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)

@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: "Natalie Roche" <xxxxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>, s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>,
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>,s 22(1)(a)(ii)
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: Brussels update [SEC=OFFICIAL]

OFFICIAL

We will check again today and let you know of any update. Cheers and have a great break.  Caroline

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Monday, December 23, 2024 12:11 AM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; Caroline Millar <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>;
Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Natalie Roche <xxxxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>;s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: Brussels update [SEC=OFFICIAL]
Importance: High

OFFICIAL

All,

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As we are about to head into shutdown period we would be grateful for any update on whether you
think agrément for HOM Brussels is likely to come through in the next day or so?

I will be on leave from 24 Dec to 13 Jan, so if agrément comes in over the Christmas shutdown,
would you please let all above email recipients know so the next steps can be put into play. HOMSES
are holding tight on booking flights so the earlier they can proceed the more options will be
available.

As a quick update from our end, the GG has pre-signed (undated) credentials papers for Belgium
and EU for HOM. I have packaged these up for post via Dip Bag (separate email with soft copies and
instructions) marked to David’s attention. (NATO/Luxembourg letters will be processed later).

I have pre-prepared a draft media release in consultation with post and FAS’s OTN and DND. This is
currently with a/g Dep Sec DMG office for bio input/final clearance. Once cleared we can progress to
FMO so they have it ready should agrément come through early January and they want to announce
before his expected start on 13 January. (with strict instruction not to announce until DFAT confirm
agrément is through).

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Officer | Diplomatic and Consular Accreditation Section
Protocol and Events Branch | Executive Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)

Title:
Agrément - New Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium
MRN:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)

To:
Canberra

Cc:
From:
Brussels

From File:
EDRMS
Files:
References:  s 22(1)(a)(ii)
The cable has the following attachment/s -
BELGIUM - Agrément approval - Ambassador Designate.pdf
Response:   Routine, Information Only

We received a TPN on 23 December, dated 20 December, advising that the King of the Belgians has
granted agrément to General (Rtd) Angus Campbell AO, DSC as Ambassador to Belgium. We have also
notified the European Union.


text ends

Sent by:  s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Prepared
by:
Approved  Caroline Millar, HOM
by:
Special
Sensitive Information/Australian HOM HOP Agrement
Dist:
▼New Distribution

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Page 1 of 1
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
David Brightling
Sent:
Tuesday, 10 December 2024 5:22 PM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
; Caroline Millar
Cc:
s 22(1)(a)
Jonathan Muir
Subject:
RE
(ii): : HOM-designate Brussels: - draft credentials

Thankss 22(1)(a)(ii)

As of yesterday we had no updates on  ming for agrément. I will let you know as soon as our protocol oﬃcer at Post
receives an update.

No concerns from our perspec ve with ge ng the papers signed in advance and le  undated – with two versions
for 2024 and 2025. I’ll come back to you overnight Canberra with any edits to the dra s. NATO Protocol have not
indicated that we need a FM countersignature, so we can proceed on the basis that only the GG need sign the le er.
The NATO accredita on is the least onerous of the four.

Kind regards,
David

David Brightling
_______________________________
Deputy Head of Mission
Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg
Mission to the European Union and NATO
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 4:43 AM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; Caroline Millar <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: : HOM-designate Brussels: - draft credentials

Dear David and Caroline,

I am resending this email to you David, as we have a very small window of opportunity le  to be able to get papers
signed by the Governor-General in advance of her end of year break.
As men oned below, if you expect agrément will come through late December / early January, we can seek
permission from the Oﬃce of the GG to have her pre-sign papers that can be dated by post according to when
agrément is granted.

Grateful your earliest review of a ached papers – including advice sought on NATO le er signatories – and decision
about pre-signing papers.

Thanks
Kind regards
1
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Sent: Friday, December 6, 2024 5:54 PM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Dear David,

Whilst I am sure that agrément is s ll a li le while away (any ideas?), please ﬁnd a ached dra s of all creden als
papers in prepara on, for posts review.

Can I please conﬁrm that the NATO le er s ll needs to be signed by both GG and FM?
I have made dra s based on Caroline’s papers however there seems to be no ﬁnalised signed NATO le er in her ﬁle
so I am unsure about the requirements.

The next ques on I have and will look to posts guidance, is that the GG will be on leave from 13 December to 13
January. I understand that the whole agrément process was delayed due to the onboarding of the HOM-des,
however if it looks likely the HOM-des will be star ng 13 January (pending agrément granted).

Should we look to get papers signed by the GG next week, leaving them undated, so post can date a er agrément is
through? We have done this in the past for an oﬃcer star ng at another post in January. We can request the GG
sign two sets of undated papers (one for 2024 and one for 2025) and send both to post. Post can then date the
appropriate ones and destroy the other ones.

s 47E(d)

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:38 AM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>;s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
2
41 of 224

DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
LEX 12017
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément [

Thankss 22(1)(a)(ii)

Understood and noted. We will update you as soon as we receive a response.

David

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Thursday, November 28, 2024 11:35 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Hi all,

Thank you for the thorough informa on. Un l agrément is granted, we can not progress for passport/visa.
We will send these through when they are available but I wanted to ﬂag the dependencies.

Thanks

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Assistant Director - Interna onal (SHS)
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:07 AM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Thanks David.

Happy to dra  creden als and send to you for review. As always we would not get papers signed un l agrément is
granted.

HOMSES – will you respond re photo and passport please?

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
Ps 22(1)(a)(ii)

3
42 of 224

DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:02 AM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Dear HOM SES Unit and s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Below is an update on the agrément process for HOM-designate Brussels, with advice on the forms of address for
the creden al le ers. This has been conﬁrmed by each of the relevant Protocol divisions (Belgium MFA, Luxembourg
MFA, EU and NATO).

1.  Belgium
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)

For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Majesty the King of the Belgians” (no given name) and referred to as
“Your Majesty”

2.  Luxembourg
Agrément request can only be lodged a er the approval of the agrément from Belgium.
For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Royal Highness the Grand Duke” (no “of Luxembourg”, no given name).
Even a er son Guillaume takes over, expected towards the end of 2025, same type of address, (no name) and
referred to as “Your Royal Highness”

3.  European Council
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)

For creden al le ers, forms of address : “His Excellency Mr António Costa, President of the European Council”.
Note: Costa is taking up his du es on 1 December 2024 and is referred to as “ Your Excellency”.

4.  European Commission
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)
.
For creden al le ers, forms of address: “Her Excellency Ms Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European
Commission“ and should be referred to as “ Your Excellency”

5.  NATO
To lodge a verbal note reques ng the agrément, accompanied by a CV with photo, passport copy, security clearance
(sta ng the security level) to NATO’s Secretary General’s oﬃce. The request should have all suppor ng documents
for the process to be started.
The North Atlan c Council (NAC) has to approve the nomina on. Once approved we will receive the oﬃcial le er of
approval of the nomina on.
For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Excellency Mr Mark Rutte, Secretary General of the North Atlantic
Treaty Organisation” and should be referred to as “Dear Secretary General”

Some addi onal notes :
-  It would be helpful if Post can review of so  copy of the creden al le ers prior to their ﬁnalisa on for
signature.
-  Creden al le ers can be prepared in advance, but please make sure they are not signed before the
agrément grant date.
-  We look forward to receiving a photo in due course.

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Kind regards,
David

_______________________________
Deputy Head of Mission
Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg
Mission to the European Union and NATO
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M +s 22(1)(a)(ii)

www.eu.mission.gov.au

© Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024)
We acknowledge the Tradi onal Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their con nuing connec on to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to al First Na ons peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

5
44 of 224

DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
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s 22(1)(a)(ii)
From:
David Brightling
Sent:
Wednesday, 11 December 2024 7:27 AM
To:
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
; Caroline Millar
Cc:
s 22(1)(a) ; Jonathan Muir
Subject:
RE
(ii): : HOM-designate Brussels: - draft credentials

Dears 22(1)(a)(ii)

We have a few small suggested edits to the le ers:

1.  Belgium
Recall le er : Add “Ms” Caroline Jane Millar

2.  Luxembourg
Recall le er : Add “Ms” Caroline Jane Millar

3.  European Commission
Recall le er: NIL remarks
Credence le er : Pleniponten ary, to remove “n”

4.  European Council
Recall le er : NIL remarks
Credence le er : NIL remarks

5.  NATO
Recall le er: change to General (not Genaral)
Credence le er: change to General (not Genaral)

Thanks,
David

David Brightling
_______________________________
Deputy Head of Mission
Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg
Mission to the European Union and NATO
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 4:43 AM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; Caroline Millar <xxxxxxxx.xxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: : HOM-designate Brussels: - draft credentials

Dear David and Caroline,
1
45 of 224

DFAT – DECLASSIFIED – RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982
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I am resending this email to you David, as we have a very small window of opportunity le to be able to get papers
signed by the Governor-General in advance of her end of year break.
As men oned below, if you expect agrément will come through late December / early January, we can seek
permission from the Oﬃce of the GG to have her pre-sign papers that can be dated by post according to when
agrément is granted.

Grateful your earliest review of a ached papers – including advice sought on NATO le er signatories – and decision
about pre-signing papers.

Thanks
Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Sent: Friday, December 6, 2024 5:54 PM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; Jonathan Muir <xxxxxxxx.xxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Dear David,

Whilst I am sure that agrément is s ll a li le while away (any ideas?), please ﬁnd a ached dra s of all creden als
papers in prepara on, for posts review.

Can I please conﬁrm that the NATO le er s ll needs to be signed by both GG and FM?
I have made dra s based on Caroline’s papers however there seems to be no ﬁnalised signed NATO le er in her ﬁle
so I am unsure about the requirements.

The next ques on I have and will look to posts guidance, is that the GG will be on leave from 13 December to 13
January. I understand that the whole agrément process was delayed due to the onboarding of the HOM-des,
however if it looks likely the HOM-des will be star ng 13 January (pending agrément granted).

Should we look to get papers signed by the GG next week, leaving them undated, so post can date a er agrément is
through? We have done this in the past for an oﬃcer star ng at another post in January. We can request the GG
sign two sets of undated papers (one for 2024 and one for 2025) and send both to post. Post can then date the
appropriate ones and destroy the other ones.

s 47E(d)

Kind regards
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
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_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
Ps 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:38 AM
To:s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: Chris Nixon <xxxxx.xxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Thanks s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Understood and noted. We will update you as soon as we receive a response.

David

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Thursday, November 28, 2024 11:35 PM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Hi all,

Thank you for the thorough informa on. Un l agrément is granted, we can not progress for passport/visa.
We will send these through when they are available but I wanted to ﬂag the dependencies.

Thanks
s 22(1)(a)(ii)
Assistant Director - Interna onal (SHS)
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| Ms 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:07 AM
To: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: RE: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Thanks David.

Happy to dra  creden als and send to you for review. As always we would not get papers signed un l agrément is
granted.
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HOMSES – will you respond re photo and passport please?

Kind regards

s 22(1)(a)(ii)
_______________________________
Protocol Oﬃcer | Diploma c and Consular Accredita on Sec on
Protocol and Events Branch | Execu ve Division
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)

s 22(1)(a)(ii)

From: David Brightling <xxxxx.xxxxxxxxxx@xxxx.xxx.xx>
Sent: Friday, November 29, 2024 9:02 AM
To: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii)
@dfat.gov.au>
Subject: HOM-designate Brussels: update on agrément

Dear HOM SES Unit and s 22(1)(a)(ii)

Below is an update on the agrément process for HOM-designate Brussels, with advice on the forms of address for
the creden al le ers. This has been conﬁrmed by each of the relevant Protocol divisions (Belgium MFA, Luxembourg
MFA, EU and NATO).

1.  Belgium
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)

For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Majesty the King of the Belgians” (no given name) and referred to as
“Your Majesty”

2.  Luxembourg
Agrément request can only be lodged a er the approval of the agrément from Belgium.
For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Royal Highness the Grand Duke” (no “of Luxembourg”, no given name).
Even a er son Guillaume takes over, expected towards the end of 2025, same type of address, (no name) and
referred to as “Your Royal Highness”

3.  European Council
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)

For creden al le ers, forms of address : “His Excellency Mr António Costa, President of the European Council”.
Note: Costa is taking up his du es on 1 December 2024 and is referred to as “ Your Excellency”.

4.  European Commission
Agrément requested on 25/11/24 s 47E(d)

For creden al le ers, forms of address: “Her Excellency Ms Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European
Commission“ and should be referred to as “ Your Excellency”

5.  NATO
To lodge a verbal note reques ng the agrément, accompanied by a CV with photo, passport copy, security clearance
(sta ng the security level) to NATO’s Secretary General’s oﬃce. The request should have all suppor ng documents
for the process to be started.
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The North Atlan c Council (NAC) has to approve the nomina on. Once approved we will receive the oﬃcial le er of
approval of the nomina on.
For creden al le ers, forms of address: “His Excellency Mr Mark Rutte, Secretary General of the North Atlantic
Treaty Organisation” and should be referred to as “Dear Secretary General”

Some addi onal notes :
-  It would be helpful if Post can review of so  copy of the creden al le ers prior to their ﬁnalisa on for
signature.
-  Creden al le ers can be prepared in advance, but please make sure they are not signed before the
agrément grant date.
-  We look forward to receiving a photo in due course.

Kind regards,
David

_______________________________
Deputy Head of Mission
Australian Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg
Mission to the European Union and NATO
P s 22(1)(a)(ii)
| M s 22(1)(a)(ii)

www.eu.mission.gov.au

© Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024)
We acknowledge the Tradi onal Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their con nuing connec on to land, waters and community.
We pay our respects to al  First Na ons peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

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