Australia Names New High Commissioner to Ghana as Relations Strengthen

New diplomatic leadership for West Africa

Australia has appointed Keara Shaw as its new High Commissioner to Ghana, effective from Sunday, 5 July 2026. Shaw will also hold non-resident accreditation responsibility for eight additional West African nations: Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

The appointment underscores Australia's commitment to deepening engagement across the region. A statement from Australia's High Commission noted that Ghana's political stability and growing regional influence make it a key partner for Australia. The two nations share Commonwealth ties and maintain strong people-to-people connections.

Focus areas for bilateral cooperation

Australia and Ghana continue to expand cooperation in several critical sectors, including trade and investment, mining operations, and climate-resilient agricultural development. Both governments are also collaborating on broader efforts to promote peace, stability and security throughout West Africa.

Shaw is an experienced career diplomat with Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). She brings extensive international experience, having previously served in Indonesia and Zimbabwe, and acted as High Commissioner to Mauritius. Her appointment reflects Australia's intention to strengthen diplomatic leadership in the region.

The Australian government expressed gratitude to outgoing High Commissioner Berenice Owen-Jones, who served since 2022 and played a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations and advancing Australia's interests in Ghana during her tenure.