Radio National Breakfast Australia and Ireland celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations
Mar 16, 2026
Fiona Flood, Ireland's Ambassador to Australia, promotes Irish cultural, economic and community ties. She discusses why Australians attract Irish migrants. She talks about Irish healthcare workers moving to Australia and returning experience. She highlights rising interest in the Irish language and prospects for an EU–Australia trade deal.
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Why So Many Irish Move To Australia
- Australia attracts about 100,000 Irish nationals due to cultural warmth, historic links, and job opportunities in sectors like construction, healthcare, and hospitality.
- Fiona Flood highlights strong Irish community support and shared passions like sport as key pull factors that ease newcomers' settlement.
Talent Flow Seen As Experience Exchange
- Ireland recognizes the healthcare worker outflow to Australia but frames migration as experience-building rather than pure loss.
- Minister James Lawless discussed during Australian visits that many return with valuable skills after years abroad.
Irish Language Revival In Australia
- Irish language interest is rising offshore, with government support for Irish language schools in Australia and events like a winter school in the Blue Mountains.
- Fiona Flood cites cultural moments like Jessie Buckley speaking Irish and bands like Kneecap boosting youth interest.