Australia has appointed Ian Biggs as its new Ambassador to Austria, with additional accreditation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia. He will also serve as Australia’s Permanent Representative to several international organizations in Vienna, including the United Nations, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Ambassador Biggs is a seasoned diplomat, who served as Australia’s Ambassador to Iran, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, and as Deputy Head of Mission in India and Austria. Australia appointed him as Ambassador for Arms Control and Counter-Proliferation in January 2022, recognizing his specialization in arms control and non-proliferation.
His appointment underscores Australia’s commitment to promoting international non-proliferation and peaceful nuclear technology. Mr. Biggs’ expertise in arms control and non-proliferation is well-suited for his role as Australia’s Permanent Representative to the IAEA, where he will also serve on the IAEA Board of Governors.
Mr. Biggs holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from the Australian National University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Sydney.
Australia’s relationships with Austria and Central Europe are based on shared values and community ties. Mr. Biggs’ appointment is expected to help deepen Australia’s ties with these important partners, particularly in areas such as trade and investment, climate and energy, and foreign and security policy.
