USSC Non-Resident Senior Fellow Jane Hardy is the author of this article published by the Australian Journal of International Affairs.
Abstract
Words matter. Messages with consistency, clarity and purpose can be powerful tools to shape positions, policies and political agendas. Diplomatic messaging has always been an essential tool of statecraft. Hundreds of official statements are publicly released by Australian leaders and ministers each year. Crafted by diplomats and their colleagues in defence, economic and other relevant portfolios, these statements can be ‘quiet achievers’ to shape perceptions globally, even if not garnering much media attention at the time.