The “scrooge effect” on foreign affairs

DFAT has built an admirable record in navigating the rapids of international diplomacy over the last 50 years, but gradual cuts in funding can only undermine its future efficacy.

A hit to DFAT accountability

The abolition of DFAT’s Office of Development Effectiveness (ODE) is a bad decision. This development is made worse by the non-transparent way the decision was made.

Australia’s diplomatic deficit

Australia is spending less on diplomacy than ever before – and the nation’s influence abroad is suffering as a result.

DFAT’s budget squeeze damages Australian interests

Diplomacy could help to create a more favourable world for Australia’s interests, but cuts to DFAT’s budget are hampering its reach at a time when it’s needed more than ever.