Paul Lehmann appointed Australia’s next Ambassador to Ukraine

A South Australian has been appointed as Australia’s next Ambassador to Ukraine.

South Australian Paul Lehmann has been appointed as Australia’s next Ambassador to Ukraine and will be accredited to the Republic of Moldova.

An experienced diplomat, Mr Lehmann was most recently Minister-Counsellor at the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby and the former Nigeria High Commissioner.

Waikerie-born Mr Lehmann, who studied law at the University of Adelaide, was also Minister-Counsellor (development) at the Australian Embassy in Afghanistan.

Mr Lehmann went to Boarding school at Sacred Heart College from 1983 to 1987 and was school captain in Year 12.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Mr Lehmann’s appointment would continue Australia’s role in supporting Ukraine.

“Under Mr Lehmann’s leadership, Australia’s Embassy to Ukraine will continue to play a vital role in supporting the provision of Australian assistance to Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s aggression,” Senator Wong said.

Paul Lehmann. Picture: David Foote

Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Mariuz

“Australia has significantly deepened its relationship with Ukraine in recent years.

“As ambassador, Mr Lehmann will contribute to the government’s objective of helping empower Ukraine to end the war on its own terms.

“Mr Lehmann will work to expand our engagement with the government of Ukraine and other partners on our shared interests, including humanitarian assistance, trade and investment, energy and food security, multilateral co-operation, and people to people links.

“Mr Lehmann will also work to advance Australia’s interests in Moldova and maintain our consular support to Australians in the region.”

He will be based in Warsaw due to the “extremely complex and challenging” situation in Ukraine.

“The safety and security of staff is paramount. In light of rigorous assessments, the Embassy continues to operate from Warsaw,” a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokeswoman said.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade keeps this decision under review.

“The Embassy is managing Australia’s interests effectively from Warsaw, including the provision of consular services to Australians and their immediate families.”

Mr Lehmann is a Sacred Heart College former school captain who graduated in 1987.

Mr Lehmann will replace outgoing Ambassador Bruce Edwards who has held the position since 2020.

Originally published as Paul Lehmann appointed Australia’s next Ambassador to Ukraine