Opposition leader Peter Dutton has pledged to abolish the First Nations ambassador role if elected.
His comments follow a report by the Daily Telegraph that the federal government spent more than $350,000 last financial year on nine overseas trips for the ambassador, mostly to the US and Europe. The role of the ambassador includes promoting Indigenous businesses and cultural organisations to overseas markets.
In an interview with 2GB, Mr Dutton said he will abolish the position immediately.
"If it is the case that we win the next election, that position will be abolished on day one," he said.
"They've got the Prime Minister flying this guy around the world doing - I don't know what."
Gooreng Gooreng man Justin Mohamed was appointed to the role in March 2023.
He leads the recently established Office of First Nations Engagement within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The role is significant as it marks the first time Australia has dedicated Indigenous representation in international engagement.
The government highlighted that the ambassador's role is to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to advance Indigenous rights globally and support First Nations trade and investment.
The office aims to strengthen relationships with international partners, including the Pacific family, by elevating First Nations perspectives.
The federal government has said Mr Mohamed brings a strong community connection and leadership experience to the role, positioning Australia to deepen diplomatic ties by acknowledging the country's Indigenous heritage.
