Diplomatic relations between the Republic of Malta and the Commonwealth of Australia were established following Malta’s Independence in 1964. The High Commission of Malta in Canberra is also accredited to New Zealand, with whom diplomatic relations were established in 1973.

With Australia being home to the largest Maltese diaspora, having around 230,000 individuals of Maltese descent as per the 2021 Australian census, the mission also operates consulates in Melbourne and Sydney respectively, cities with the largest Maltese population and, therefore, a high demand for consular services. The consulates provide essential services, such as passports issuance, citizenship applications, authentication of official documents and issuance of Schengen visas.

The relationship between Australia and Malta is bound by strong family ties, links of kinship, friendship and a common concern for prosperity, peace and security. The High Commission continuously seeks to further nurture these already excellent bilateral relations, as likeminded partners sharing the same values, like human rights, gender equality and the rule of law. Co-operation between the two countries spans various fields such as taxation, working holiday, health, candidatures, and education. Moreover, Malta and Australia actively cooperate in multi-lateral fora such as the Commonwealth and the United Nations, reinforcing their commitment to global issues.

Malta is also represented in other major cities and regions in Australia and New Zealand, through our honorary consuls in Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, La Trobe Valley and Wellington.