The Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong has formally announced the appointment of the new Australian Ambassador to the Holy See, former Nationals MP Keith Pitt.
Pitt was the Federal MP for Hinkler in Queensland from the 2013 election until his resignation on 19 January, serving in a number of ministerial roles across a range of portfolios including as Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia.
Raised and married in the Catholic faith, he has three children with his wife Allison.
An advocate for religious freedom protections, Pitt spoke out against the 2023 Calvary Hospital takeover in the ACT, describing it as a “unsettling precedent for every faith-based school, aged care provider or healthcare organisation.”
He also opposed restoring territory rights over the issue of legalising euthanasia.
“Mr Pitt looks forward to continuing his public service in a new role advocating Australia’s interests in the Holy See, particularly in 2025 as the Holy See celebrates a Jubilee year, expecting 35 million visitors to Rome,” Minister Wong said in a 16 February statement.
“Australia and the Holy See have a valuable relationship underpinned by cooperation on shared interests, including peace and conflict prevention and alleviating poverty.
“I thank former Ambassador Chiara Porro for her contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in the Holy See since 2020.”
Australian Catholic Bishops Conference President Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB congratulated the incoming ambassador to the “prestigious” new role, saying his appointment is testament to “Mr Pitt’s distinguished service and dedication to our nation.”
“Transitioning from his role in Federal Parliament to this significant diplomatic position underscores the trust and confidence placed in him to represent Australia’s interests on the global stage,” Archbishop Costelloe said.
“His experience and insights will undoubtedly serve him well as he navigates the complexities of international diplomacy.
“The appointment of a former parliamentarian to this esteemed position follows a notable precedent.
“In 2008, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd appointed the Honourable Tim Fischer as the first resident ambassador to the Vatican, highlighting the importance of this role in fostering international relations.
“We assure Mr Pitt of our support and prayers as he seeks to be a bridge of goodwill between the Australian government and the Holy See.
“We also extend our sincere thanks to outgoing ambassador Chiara Porro for her dedicated service over four years and wish her and her family well for all that lies ahead.”