PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

26 March 2026, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador H.E. Ambassador Morales met with Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Senator Jonno Duniam to underscore the enduring contributions of the Filipino diaspora to Australia and to reaffirm the strength of Philippines-Australia relations.

Ambassador Morales and Senator Duniam noted that people-to-people connections remain at the cornerstone of the Strategic Partnership that continues to deepen across a wide range of sectors.

Ambassador Morales highlighted the growing Filipino community in Australia, now numbering more than 400,000, making it the country’s fifth-largest diaspora and the presence of over 34,000 Filipino international students, now the fifth-largest international student cohort in Australia.

He emphasized Filipinos across Australia are actively engaged in key industries including healthcare, education, engineering, hospitality, and information technology. These contributions not only complement Australia’s workforce needs but also reinforce the shared commitment of both countries to innovation, skills development, and inclusive growth.

Senator Duniam welcomed the Filipino community’s positive and growing impact, underscoring the importance of sustained bilateral engagement, particularly as the Philippines and Australia mark 80 years of diplomatic relations this year. - END