National Reconciliation Week: Honouring Heritage through First Nations Stories  

On 27 May 2025, the Australian High Commission hosted a reception elevating Australian First Nations voices for National Reconciliation Week in New Delhi. Observed between 27 May and 3 June, Reconciliation Week highlights Australia’s ongoing journey of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and is a time for Australians to learn about and reflect on our shared history. The reception at Triveni Kala Sangam inaugurated the Australian First Nations exhibition Yiwarra Kuju: The Canning Stock Route. Developed by the National Museum of Australia, the exhibition offered an Indigenous perspective on the historic Canning Stock Route, one of the country’s most significant inland corridors. The exhibition featured striking paintings, photographs and oral histories that marked a vital chapter in Australia’s history. Through the voices and artistry of Australia’s First Nations communities, the exhibition showcased themes of cultural resilience, survival and continuity. Addressing the audience, High Commissioner Philip Green reflected on the values of Australia’s new leadership - fairness, aspiration, and opportunity, which have played a central role in Australia’s reconciliation journey. The High Commissioner reiterated Australia’s enduring commitment to inclusion and diversity, drawing thoughtful parallels to India’s own rich cultural heritage and noting the powerful role of art in fostering mutual understanding and respect between peoples.

(Visitors take in the powerful storytelling of Yiwarra Kuju: The Canning Stock Route in New Delhi) 

Strengthening Strategic Ties: High Commissioner Philip Green addresses India’s National Defence College 

On 21 May 2025, High Commissioner Philip Green addressed a high-calibre cohort of senior officers at India’s prestigious National Defence College (NDC) in New Delhi – the second time during his tenure. In his remarks, the High Commissioner reflected on the growing depth of the Australia-India strategic partnership, emphasising India’s vital role as a key defence partner to Australia’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. This continued dialogue with the NDC highlights Australia’s commitment to working closely with India to advance peace, stability and resilience prosperity across the region. 

(High Commissioner Philip Green addresses India's National Defence College) 

Championing Gender Equality: Australia welcomes BJP Mahila Morcha President Vanathi Srinivasan 

Australia is committed to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. In May 2025, we welcomed Vanathi Srinivasan, National President of the BJP Mahila Morcha, to Australia for a substantive visit that explored our shared priorities around women’s leadership and policy exchange. During her program, Ms Srinivasan engaged with state ministers, academic leaders and participated in a radio interview with the Australian Tamil Broadcasting Corporation. Her visit strengthened the strong people-to-people ties between Australia and India and reaffirmed our mutual commitment to inclusive growth and gender equity. 

(National President of the BJP Mahila Morcha Vanathi Srinivasan with Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong)

Untamed Conversations: High Commissioner Philip Green’s thought-provoking discussion with Sandhya Mridul

High Commissioner Philip Green sat down for a thought-provoking conversation with acclaimed actor and debut author, Sandhya Mridul on 2 May 2025. The discussion offered insights into the evolving role of women in Bollywood and the deeply personal themes explored in her new book, Untamed. In her first collection of poems, Mridul draws from her own journey through grief and loss to explore themes of healing, self-discovery and emotional resilience. Her powerful voice, both on and off screen, reflects both the challenges and the growing space for women in India’s creative industries.

(High Commissioner Philip Green in conversation with Sandhya Mridul)