In particular, the Secretary conceded that consular services were at a “pressure point” as the resources DFAT was able to devote to consular activities has dwindled as the demands for their services continue to grow.

The information was provided in answer to questions by the Chair of the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee, Queensland Liberal/ LNP Senator, Russell Trood.

“The admission by the Secretary highlights the appalling lack of additional funding the in the 2010-11 Budget and the continuation of the trend by the Rudd Government to under fund DFAT”, said Senator Trood.

“It is clear that the Rudd Government has no intention to correct Australia’s diplomatic deficit overseas, placing enormous pressures on the Department to operate effectively and provide the consular support required by Australian citizens.”