Passport Usage: Records Assessing Or Confirming Mr. Abbott's Use Of An Official Or Diplomatic Passport For His Travel To Budapest In September 2019, April 2024, May 2025, And April 2026, Considering…
Show full title
Passport Usage: Records Assessing Or Confirming Mr. Abbott's Use Of An Official Or Diplomatic Passport For His Travel To Budapest In September 2019, April 2024, May 2025, And April 2026, Considering These Trips Involved Paid 'fellowships' Or Private Advocacy For The Hungarian-State-Linked Danube Institute. Embassy Support: Correspondence Between The Australian Embassy In Budapest And Mr. Abbott’s Office Regarding Logistical Facilitation Or Diplomatic Transport Provided For These Specific Trips. Reputational Risk: Any Internal DFAT Cables, Policy Memos, Or Briefing Notes Discussing The Diplomatic And Reputational Risk Of A Former Australian Prime Minister Officially Engaging With And Accepting Stipends From The Orbán Government. Specifically, Any Assessments Regarding The Severe Conflict Of Mr. Abbott Closely Aligning With A Leader Who Was Constantly Blocking EU Resolutions To Assist The Ukrainians Over The Border In The Very Fields In Which Putin-Backed Militias Shot Down Mh17—the Same Vladimir Putin Whom Mr. Abbott Publicly Vowed He Would Shirtfront: "you Bet You Are, You Bet I Am."
DFAT
AI summary
DFAT released limited correspondence regarding former Prime Minister Abbott's September 2019 attendance at the Budapest Demography Summit, organized under Prime Minister Orbán's signature. Internal emails show the Australian Embassy in Vienna notified Canberra of Abbott's participation on 30 July and 1 August 2019, with officials confirming no diplomatic assistance or support was requested or provided by Abbott or the summit organizers. A 4 October 2019 email reiterates the post did not provide assistance. The disclosure does not contain the requested materials on passport usage across multiple years, reputational risk assessments, or internal policy discussions regarding potential conflicts of interest from Abbott's engagement with the Hungarian government.
Document text
Show extracted text (31,493 chars)
DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Tuesday, 30 July 2019 8:02 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Cc: Subject: Former PM Abbott - Hungary conference [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED] UNCLASSIFIED Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) For information. Former PM Abbott has accepted an invitation to participate in the 3rd Budapest Demography Summit which takes in Budapest on 5-6 September - https://bdfelsoacsalad.hu/en s 22(1)(a)(ii) Invitations were issued under PM Orban's signature. The Conference organisers contacted us last week to let us know about Mr Abbott's attendance and subsequently provided s 22(1)(a)(ii) with some further information. s 22(1)(a)(ii) At this point, there has been no request for assistance from either Mr Abbott or the Summit organisers, however we'll continue to monitor. Cheers s 22(1)(a)(ii) Adviser | Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN Mattiellistrasse 2-4 | 1040 Vienna | Austria T: s 22(1)(a)(ii) M: s 22(1)(a)(ii) E: s 22(1)(a)(ii)@dfat.gov.au 1 Page 1 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Thursday, 1 August 2019 8:57 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Manton, Lucienne; s 22(1)(a)(ii) Subject: Travel by former Prime Minister Abbott to Hungary [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED] UNCLASSIFIED Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) For your information, our post in Vienna has advised us that former Prime Minister Abbott has accepted an invitation to participate in the 3rd Budapest Demography Summit, which takes place in Budapest on 5-6 September - https://bdfelsoacsalad.hu/en s 22(1)(a)(ii) Invitations were issued under Prime Minister Orbán's signature. s 22(1)(a)(ii) Former Prime Minister Abbott has not as yet requested any assistance from post. We will let you know (as well as Executive Branch) if there are any further developments concerning Mr Abbott's travel to Hungary. Best wishes s 22(1)(a)(ii) Northern and Central Europe Section Europe and Latin America Division Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Canberra Tel: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Fax: 1 Page 2 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Friday, 4 October 2019 7:14 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Cc: Subject: RE: Hungary: Budapest Demography Summit - Assistance provided to Australian Speakers? [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED] UNCLASSIFIED Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii) No, post was not asked and neither did we provide support to Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) . We were not contacted at any stage by either Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) offices. s 22(1)(a)(ii) Cheers s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Friday, 4 October 2019 3:55 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: Hungary: Budapest Demography Summit - Assistance provided to Australian Speakers? [SEC=UNCLASSIFIED] UNCLASSIFIED Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii) Did Post provide any assistance to either Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) for their participation in the Budapest Demography Summit (s 22(1)(a)(ii) refers)? If so, what form did that assistance take? s 22(1)(a)(ii) Also, can you please confirm (again for the brief) that s 22(1)(a)(ii) was the only person from Post to attend. Was there to provide any assistance to either Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) or solely as an observer? Many thanks and best regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Policy Officer | Northern and Central Europe Section EU Political and Strategy Branch | Europe and Latin America Division Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Phone s 22(1)(a)(ii) www.dfat.gov.au Web | Twitter | YouTube | Flickr 1 Page 3 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Outlook s 22(1)(a)(ii) Travel by former Prime Ministers and Portfolio Ministers [SEC=OFFICIAL] From s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Date Thu 10/3/2024 12:03 PM To s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> 1 attachment (47 KB) Attachment A - Assistance provided to former Prime Ministers since last estimates - PM Edit.docx; OFFICIAL Dear MEL/EXD, Thanks for your cable s 22(1)(a)(ii) requesting posts to identify assistance provided to former PMs and Portfolio Ministers. Please see below Vienna Post's response, which pertains to only one of our countries of accreditation: Hungary. The Hon Tony Abbott AC | Date of Travel | Countries Visited | Assistance Requested | Assistance Provided | Cable MRN | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **2024** | | | | | | 23 – 28 April 2024 | Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) | Airport facilitation in Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) | Access to Government lounge at Budapest airport upon arrival s 47F(1) s 22(1)(a)(ii) | | | 26 – 29 May 2024 | Hungary | Airport facilitation | Exemption from inspection at Budapest airport | | I understand my colleagues at Vienna Post liaised directly with MEL on airport facilitation for former PM Abbott. Please let me know if you require anything further. Kind regards, s 22(1)(a)(ii) Second Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. Page 4 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 # ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY POSTS TO FORMER PRIME MINISTERS – 7 MAY TO 25 OCTOBER 2024 s 22(1)(a)(ii) # The Hon Tony Abbott AC | Date of Travel | Countries Visited | Assistance Requested | Assistance Provided | Cable MRN | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 2024 | | | | | | 23 – 28 April 2024 | Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) | Airport facilitation in Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) | Access to Government lounge at Budapest airport upon arrival | | Page 5 of 29 s 22(1)(a)(ii), s 47F(1) Page 6 of 29 s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 7 of 29 s 33(a)(iii), s 33(b) Page 8 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Friday, April 26, 2024 01:31 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Catherine Reid <catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Ian Biggs <ian.gigs@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM - Mr Abbott Travel - Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii)[SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive]</ian.gigs@dfat.gov.au></catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au></catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au> **OFFICIAL: Sensitive** Good morning s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for your email. I confirm that I have advised Mr Abbott's office accordingly. Have a lovely day! Kind regards, s 22(1)(a)(ii) A/g Assistant Director Ministerial Liaison & Support Section (MEL) T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Thursday, April 25, 2024 8:00 PM Page 9 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Catherine Reid <catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Ian Biggs <ian.gigs@dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM - Mr Abbott Travel - Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive]</ian.gigs@dfat.gov.au></catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au></catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au> **OFFICIAL: Sensitive** Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for advising Mr Abbott's office regarding the Budapest leg of travel. s 22(1)(a)(ii) Grateful your confirmation overnight that this advice has been sent. Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) First Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy  From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 5:26 AM To s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Catherine Reid <catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM -Mr Abbott Travel - Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive] **OFFICIAL: Sensitive** Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for your email and apologies for not getting back to you earlier. Noted on your advice below. We will inform Mr Abbott's office accordingly. In regards to your other questions: - s 47E(d) - s 22(1)(a)(ii) You might find the High Level and Official Visit Guidelines a useful resource. Particularly Item 2 and Item 9. Please reach out if you have any further questions. Page 10 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) A/g Assistant Director | Ministerial Liaison & Support Section Cabinet, Ministerial and Parliamentary Branch | Executive Division Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade p s 22(1)(a)(ii) | M s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 3:30 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; Catherine Reid <catherine.reid@dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM -Mr Abbott Travel - Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive] OFFICIAL: Sensitive Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Please see attached the response from the Hungarian MFA to our request for airport facilitation -s 47F(1) Grateful if MEL could please convey this information to Mr Abbott's office. Could we also please follow-up for a response regarding the s 47F(1) Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) First Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy  From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Thursday, April 18, 2024 5:53 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM -Mr Abbott Travel - Hungary and Austria [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive] OFFICIAL: Sensitive Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for sending this request through. Post has sought airport facilitation for Mr Abbott and s 47F(1) upon arrival in Budapest, s 47E(d) s 33(a)(iii) s 47F(1), s 47E(d) Page 11 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 47F(1), s 47E(d) I further note the Schedule for The Hon Tony Abbott under the Parliamentary Business Resources (Former Prime Ministers) Determination 2017 advises "A former Prime Minister and an accompanying spouse or de facto partner has access to international travel expenses necessary for the travel when undertaking international travel approved by the Prime Minister." We are conscious of the need to carefully adhere to the appropriate policies regarding facilitation of travel for former Prime Ministers, and would thus appreciate your clear advice on how to proceed, including: s 47E(d) s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 47E(d) Welcome your advice on the appropriate policies here and how we should proceed. s 22(1)(a)(ii) From s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Monday, April 15, 2024 3:52 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: FPM -Mr Abbot Travel -Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive] OFFICIAL: Sensitive Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii) Please see attached request from Mr Abbotts office for airport facilitation. Mr Abbot will be travelling to Hungary on personal business, s 47F(1) Details of travel are below and original correspondence attached for your reference. Thank you. s 47F(1) Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 12 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) Senior Coordination and Administration Officer | Ministerial Liaison and Support (MEL) Cabinet, Ministerial and Parliamentary Branch | Executive Division Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) dfat.gov.au | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn  © Kim Hill, Among Women (2011) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. OFFICIAL Page 13 of 29 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Outlook Fw: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL:Sensitive] s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: 08 May 2025 11:55 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) .s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] ## OFFICIAL Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for your patience. We have received further advice from the Diplomatic Protocol Office at the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and, on this occasion, the airport facilitation they are able to offer us is the exemption from search: We would like to inform the esteemed Embassy that the exemption from the Hungarian Civil Aviation Authority grants exemption under hand search of passengers, handbags and hold bags. The Protocol Office also informed us about the possibility of booking Government Lounge at Budapest airport but I believe that will not be required as Mr Abbott will be able to use lounge access as per the conditions of his ticket. about:blank?windowId=SecondaryReadingPane71 Page 14 of 29 1/6 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Best regards, s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) Visits and Travel Officer | Corporate Services Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Vienna s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Sent: 08 May 2025 04:42 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) No problems at all – we appreciate your efforts. You can reach on: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Many thanks, s 22(1)(a)(ii) Adviser OFFICE OF THE HON TONY ABBOTT AC GPO BOX 36 SYDNEY NSW 2001 M: s 22(1)(a)(ii) E: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Thursday, 8 May 2025 8:48 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to clarify the arrangements that are in place for Mr Abbott's travel to and from Budapest. We will continue our efforts first thing tomorrow morning. I would be grateful if you could share s 22(1)(a)(ii) mobile number so that our Visits and Travel Officer, s 22(1)(a)(ii) (copied), can liaise with him on arrival in Budapest on what we've been able to ascertain. Page 15 of 29 about:blank?windowId=SecondaryReadingPane71 2/6 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Also providing you s 22(1)(a)(ii) mobile number s 22(1)(a)(ii) should you wish to get in touch directly with her. Best regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Deputy Head of Mission Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) | M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy AusEmbassy  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Wednesday, 7 May 2025 1:42 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> OFFICIAL Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Just confirming that we're in touch with the Hungarian authorities and will advise you as soon as possible – hopefully tomorrow – on what they're able to provide. Best regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Deputy Head of Mission Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) | M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) Page 16 of 29 about:blank?windowId=SecondaryReadingPane71 3/6 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Sent: Monday, 5 May 2025 3:15 AM To s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for making these arrangements. That's much appreciated. Kind regards, s 22(1)(a)(ii) OFFICE OF THE HON TONY ABBOTT AC GPO BOX 36 SYDNEY NSW 2001 M: s 22(1)(a)(ii) E: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Monday, 5 May 2025 7:23 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Thank you for your message to DFAT's Ministerial Liaison team. I confirm Vienna post will reach out to the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade tomorrow (Monday, 5 May) to request airport facilitation for Mr Abbott and s 47F(1) We will be in touch soon but please feel free to contact me anytime. Best regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Deputy Head of Mission Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy Page 17 of 29 about:blank?windowId=SecondaryReadingPane71 4/6 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Sent: Thursday, 1 May 2025 10:00 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Subject: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary May 2025 Good evening, Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) will be travelling to Hungary for personal business on s 47F(1) Mr Abbott s 22(1)(a)(ii) passports are attached. For the flights, Mr Abbott is happy to use the lounge access that comes with his ticket, he does not require access to VIP/Government lounges. If airport facilitation is possible into and out of Budapest, that would be greatly appreciated. Please see the scheduled flights below: s 47F(1) Thank you for your ongoing assistance and please let me know if you have any questions. Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) OFFICE OF THE HON TONY ABBOTT AC GPO BOX 36 SYDNEY NSW 2001 M: s 22(1)(a)(ii) E: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au about:blank?windowId=SecondaryReadingPane71 Page 18 of 29 5/6 s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 19 of 29 s 47F(1) Page 20 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: 26 May 2025 11:40 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: RE: Request for airport facilitation from Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott - Travel to Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) May/June 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii) I've contacted Vienna Airport regarding Mr Abbott's airport facilitation. They informed me that they don't offer personal facilitation however, if interested, they recommended booking their VIP service. This (chargeable) service provides escort for VIP guests, including the skipping of passport check queues. The price for this service starts from EUR 450.00 per guest (plus EUR 225.00 for each additional guest). However, transiting through Vienna airport is quite straightforward and more information can be found on the Vienna Airport website. Please note, Mr Abbott s 47F(1) will need to go through passport control as they will be arriving from Schengen country s 22(1)(a)(ii) Please let me know if you need any additional information. Thank you, s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 21 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 22(1)(a)(ii) Visits and Travel Officer | Corporate Services Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) | Voicenet s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: 21 May 2025 09:15 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: FW: Request for airport facilitation from Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott - Travel to Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) May/June 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Hi s 22(1)(a)(ii) (and copying s 22(1)(a)(ii) for visibility) Please see airport facilitation request for Vienna for Mr Abbott. Grateful your advice of what facilitation services are available in Vienna, what was done last time etc. With thanks s 22(1)(a)(ii) First Secretary (Management) & Consul Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) | M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy AusEmbassy  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Sent: Wednesday, 21 May 2025 8:54 AM Page 22 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: Fwd: Request for airport facilitation from Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott - Travel to Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) May/June 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Good morning s 22(1)(a)(ii) Can I please ask your team to take this requests forward? Are you happy to be the POC for these requests? Many thanks s 22(1)(a)(ii) From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Date: Wednesday, 21 May 2025 at 7:21:17 am To s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>, s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: Request for airport facilitation from Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott - Travel to Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) May/June 2025 [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Dear s 22(1)(a)(ii) Please see below another request from Mr Abbotts office for airport facilitation at Vienna airport. Grateful if Post could contact s 47F(1) who will be travelling with Mr Abbott. s 47F(1) Assistant Adviser M: s 47F(1) E: s 47F(1) aph.gov.au Thank you as usual for your assistance with these requests. Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) Senior Coordination and Administration Officer | Ministerial Liaison and Support Section Cabinet Ministerial and Parliamentary Branch | Executive Division Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade P s 22(1)(a)(ii) | M s 22(1)(a)(ii) dfat.gov.au | X | Face am | LinkedIn Page 23 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Sent: Wednesday, 21 May 2025 1:07 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au> Subject: FPM Abbott travel | Hungary s 22(1)(a)(ii) May/June 2025 Good evening, Mr Abbott and s 22(1)(a)(ii) will be travelling to Hungary and Ukraine on personal business on s 47F(1) Please find both of our passports are attached. For the flights, Mr Abbott is happy to use the lounge access that comes with his ticket, he does not require access to VIP/Government lounges. If airport facilitation is possible at Vienna airport, that would assist with our travels and be greatly appreciated. Please see the scheduled flights below: s 47F(1) Page 24 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 s 47F(1) Thank you for your ongoing assistance and please let me know if you have any questions. Kind Regards, s 22(1)(a)(ii) Assistant Adviser OFFICE OF THE HON TONY ABBOTT AC GPO BOX 36 SYDNEY NSW 2001 M: s 22(1)(a)(ii) E: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @aph.gov.au OFFICIAL Page 25 of 29 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Outlook FW: Vienna Post response - s 22(1)(a)(ii) Travel by former PMs and Portfolio Ministers [SEC=OFFICIAL] From s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Date Thu 11/13/2025 11:55 AM To s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> 1 attachment (48 KB) Assistance provided to former Prime Ministers and Portfolio Ministers - VIEN Post to 28Nov25.docx; ### OFFICIAL Dear MEL, Thank you for taskings 22(1)(a)(ii) and s 22(1)(a)(ii) I have updated the attached which now lists assistance provided to former prime ministers and portfolio ministers for the period of 31 January 2025 to 28 November 2025. Please let me know if you require anything further. Kind regards. s 22(1)(a)(ii) Second Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna TS 22(1)(a)(ii) M S 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy AusEmbassy From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11:56 AM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Cc: s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) Subject: RE: Vienna Post response s 22(1)(a)(ii) Travel by former PMs and Portfolio Ministers [SEC=OFFICIAL] @dfat.gov.au> @dfat.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>; s 22(1)(a)(ii) ### OFFICIAL Dear MEL, Further to Vienna Post's response to your tasking on 4 September, I would like to advise an additional request received and actioned on 5 September: The Hon Tony Abbott AC | 15-16 September | Hungary | Airport facilitation in and out of Budapest | Post sent s 47E(d) to Hungarian MFA on 5 September, requesting airport facilitation upon arrival and departure. As of 10 September, we are awaiting a formal response from the Hungarian MFA's Protocol team.Former PM Abbott will be a keynote speaker at day 2 of the Danube Institute's Fifth Geopolitical Summit, held in partnership with the US' Heritage Foundation. Vienna Post (Gordon, Connor) will attend parts of the conference as observers. | Yet to travel to Hungary. | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | Kind regards. s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 26 of 29 1/2 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Second Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna T s 22(1)(a)(ii) M s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy AusEmbassy From: s 22(1)(a)(ii) Sent: Thursday, 4 September 2025 6:01 PM To: s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Cc s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au>s 22(1)(a)(ii) s 22(1)(a)(ii) @dfat.gov.au> Subject: Vienna Post response - s 22(1)(a)(ii) Travel by former PMs and Portfolio Ministers [SEC=OFFICIAL] OFFICIAL Dear Ministerial Liaison team, Thanks for your cable s 22(1)(a)(ii) Attached is Vienna Post's response. Please don't hesitate to reach out should you require any further information! Kind regards s 22(1)(a)(ii) Second Secretary – Bilateral Relations and Public Diplomacy Australian Embassy and Permanent Mission to the UN, Vienna s 22(1)(a)(ii) W www.austria.embassy.gov.au X @AusAmbVIE AusEmbassy AusEmbassy  © Brooke Rigney-Lively (2024) We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all First Nations peoples, their cultures and to their Elders, past, present and emerging. s 22(1)(a)(ii) Page 27 of 29 DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 # ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY POSTS TO FORMER PRIME MINISTERS – 31 JANUARY 2025 TO 28 NOVEMBER 2025 # The Hon Tony Abbott AC | Date of Travel | Countries Visited | Assistance Requested | Assistance Provided | Cable MRN | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | **2025** | | | | | | 8-12 May | Hungary | Airport facilitation in and out of Budapest | Post liaised with Hungarian authorities to request airport facilitation. The Hungarian Government granted an 'exemption under hand search of passengers, handbags and hold bags'. | None, but notes 22(1)(a)(ii) are an FOI document search on Tony Abbott's visit to Hungary in 2024. | | 28-30 May | Hungary (+3.5hr stopover in Vienna while waiting for connecting flight to Chisinau) | Airport facilitation at Vienna airport | None – Vienna airport does not offer airport facilitation. | None | | 15-16 September | Hungary | Airport facilitation in and out of Budapest | Post sent Note Verbale No. HU 27/25 to Hungarian MFA on 5 September, requesting airport facilitation upon arrival and departure. Former PM Abbott was a keynote speaker at day 2 of the Danube Institute's Fifth Geopolitical Summit, held in partnership with the US' Heritage Foundation. Vienna Post (Gordon, Connor) attended parts of the conference as observers. | None | Page 28 of 29 s 22(1)(a)(ii) DFAT - RELEASED UNDER THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1982 - LEX 13598 Page 29 of 29