The Book
Australian Ambassador
The remarkable story of a trailblazing Australian diplomat who redefined what's possible – and what it means to belong.
From childhood migration to a history-making diplomatic career, Australian Ambassador traces the remarkable journey of Jenny Bloomfield, who arrived in Australia from Greece at twelve and, decades later, became both the first Greek Australian and the first woman to serve as Australia’s ambassador in Athens.
Spanning postings in Iran, Argentina, Japan, Taiwan, Greece and Eastern Europe, Jenny’s career unfolded across some of the world's most complex political landscapes. With her husband and four children by her side, she navigated crises, cultural divides and moments of profound connection. In this candid and deeply human memoir, she opens a rare window into the diplomatic world – its pressures, its purpose and its quiet acts of courage. Her historic appointment to Athens came at a moment of intense political and economic upheaval. Drawing on her intimate understanding of both her homelands, Jenny forged bridges between Greece and Australia at a time when they were needed most.
Told with warmth, honesty and humour, Australian Ambassador is a celebration of dual heritage, public service and the possibilities of a modern, outward-looking Australia. It is also a testament to the power of belonging – how it is shaped, challenged and ultimately reclaimed.
‘I wanted to share my story because it speaks to Australia’s greatest strengths: an open, compassionate and generous nation of opportunity, where people from diverse backgrounds can come together and achieve remarkable things. In many ways, my story is the story of countless Australians.’
Jenny Bloomfield
About the author
Jenny Bloomfield had a distinguished 29-year career as an Australian diplomat and public servant. She served as Australia’s ambassador to Greece, was Australia’s representative in Taiwan, and had postings in Iran and Japan. Jenny also held senior positions at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra and led the department’s Victoria State Office in Melbourne. Since retiring in 2024, she has published widely on political, economic and foreign policy issues in Australian and international media, including the Australian Financial Review, the Lowy Institute’s Interpreter, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s The Strategist and Neos Kosmos. Her forthcoming book is Australian Ambassador.
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