Tim Watts

Tim Watts is the Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs and the federal Member for Gellibrand in Melbourne’s west. He was the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Albanese Government’s first term.

As Chair of the House Education Committee, Tim is leading an inquiry into the development of Asia capability in Australia, including the teaching and learning of Asian languages, cultures, and our broader regional engagement. Across a range of Parliamentary roles over more than a decade, Tim has led initiatives in foreign affairs, communications, cybersecurity, international education, and sports diplomacy.

As the Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs, Tim’s focus is working with our regional partners to maintain the peace, stability and prosperity of the Indian Ocean, to increase our economic, diplomatic and development ties, and to enhance our regional resilience to our security challenges, climate change and natural disasters.