Michelle Rowland Becomes Australia’s First Attorney-General of Fijian Heritage

In a moment of historic significance, Hon. Michelle Rowland MP has been sworn in as Australia’s new Attorney-General, becoming the first woman of Pacific heritage to hold the nation’s highest legal office.

Rowland’s appointment was part of the newly sworn-in Australian Cabinet, marking a proud moment not only for the Fijian diaspora but for Pasifika communities across the region.

Raised in Western Sydney by a Fijian mother and Australian father—who met in Suva in 1952—Rowland’s journey from community legal service to Blacktown City Council, federal parliament, and now Cabinet, reflects a lifetime of commitment to public service, social justice, and the values of her Pacific upbringing.

“Michelle’s appointment places a strong Pacific voice at the heart of Australian justice and deepens the bonds between our two nations,” read a celebratory statement from Pacific community leaders.

Her elevation to Attorney-General is being widely celebrated as a symbol of hope and inspiration for Pasifika communities across Australia and the Pacific, championing fairness, integrity, and stronger regional ties.