Australia has appointed Will Nankervis as its new Ambassador for Climate Change to lead international climate diplomacy efforts, particularly with Pacific and Southeast Asian partners, according to a government announcement. The appointment comes as Australia works to secure hosting rights for the COP31 climate summit in partnership with Pacific island nations. Nankervis will coordinate government departments on climate policy and represent Australia’s interests in international forums.
The role becomes crucial as Australia shifts from years of climate policy criticism to seeking regional leadership. The country faces pressure to demonstrate credible climate action while pursuing economic opportunities in the growing clean energy sector.
Nankervis has worked in key diplomatic posts, including as Australia’s ambassador to Southeast Asian nations in Jakarta and at the Australian mission to the United Nations in New York. He currently runs the Climate Diplomacy and Development Finance Division at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said climate problems need countries working together, noting that “no one country can solve these problems alone.” Climate Minister Chris Bowen pointed to the $2 trillion being invested globally in clean energy projects, with Australia wanting to increase its share of this market.
The appointment underscores Australia’s efforts to rebuild relationships with Pacific neighbors who face severe climate impacts despite minimal contribution to global emissions. Pacific leaders consistently identify climate change as their greatest security threat, with some island nations facing potential submersion from rising sea levels. Nankervis succeeds Kristin Tilley, who served as climate ambassador since 2022.
