By The Epoch Times | Created at 2026-10-01 08:41:58 | Updated at 2026-10-01 09:37:56
1 hour ago
Dr. Dave Brat, current U.S. ambassador to Australia and a former U.S. Representative and dean of Liberty University's School of Business, at the CPAC convention in National Harbor, Md., on Feb. 27, 2020. Brendon Fallon/The Epoch Times
David Brat has formally begun his term as U.S. ambassador to Australia presenting his credentials to Governor-General Sam Mostyn in Canberra on Sept. 29.
The U.S. Embassy said his priorities are to deepen the defence relationship, advance the AUKUS pact, strengthen cooperation on critical minerals, and expand trade and investment.
His first official act was laying a wreath at the Australian War Memorial.
“Australia has been our closest ally and friend for generations,” he said.
Brat served two terms as a Republican congressman for Virginia’s 7th District from 2014 to 2019. He later worked as a senior vice president at Liberty University and holds a PhD in economics.
One of his first official duties in Australia was hosting a reception for the finalists of the 2026 American Chamber of Commerce in Australia Alliance Awards, which recognise industry leaders and innovators.
“Our two nations are investing in each other more than ever before, and our economic ties have never been stronger,” Brat said. “Maintaining this momentum by delivering on commercial deals is a top priority for President Trump.”
But one of his biggest tests may be trade.
On July 23, the United States imposed a 12.5 percent tariff on Australian imports under Section 301 of its trade law. The action cited concerns about forced labour. Australia was one of 60 economies examined, and countries judged to be doing enough face a 10 percent rate.
