From childhood migration to a history-making diplomatic career, Australian Ambassador traces the remarkable journey of Jenny Bloomfield, who arrived in Australia from Greece at twelve and, decades later, became both the first Greek Australian and the first woman to serve as Australia’s ambassador in Athens.

Spanning postings in Iran, Argentina, Japan, Taiwan, Greece and Eastern Europe, Jenny’s career unfolded across some of the world's most complex political landscapes. With her husband and four children by her side, she navigated crises, cultural divides and moments of profound connection. In this candid and deeply human memoir, she opens a rare window into the diplomatic world – its pressures, its purpose and its quiet acts of courage. Her historic appointment to Athens came at a moment of intense political and economic upheaval. Drawing on her intimate understanding of both her homelands, Jenny forged bridges between Greece and Australia at a time when they were needed most.

Told with warmth, honesty and humour, Australian Ambassador is a celebration of dual heritage, public service and the possibilities of a modern, outward-looking Australia. It is also a testament to the power of belonging – how it is shaped, challenged and ultimately reclaimed.

‘I wanted to share my story because it speaks to Australia’s greatest strengths: an open, compassionate and generous nation of opportunity, where people from diverse backgrounds can come together and achieve remarkable things. In many ways, my story is the story of countless Australians.’

‘A great migrant success story … I congratulate Jenny on the book and on all that she has achieved professionally in DFAT.’ —Professor the Hon Gareth Evans AC KC, Distinguished Honorary Professor, Australian National University, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs (1988-1996)

‘I have devoured Jenny’s book . . . It is so engaging, right from the first sentence. What an extraordinary life and exceptional career she has had. She is also clearly far from “done”, even though she has retired formally from public service. —Tamar Hodos, Director of the Australian Archaeological Institute at Athens, John Atherton Young and Alexander Cambitoglou Professor incorporating the Arthur and Renee George Chair of Classical Archaeology, The University of Sydney