Media Release
21 March 2016
The new Australian Embassy in Jakarta has been opened today by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.
The new embassy is the largest ever constructed by an Australian Government and reflects the depth of the relationship between Australia and Indonesia.
The new complex in Patra Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan, which includes a five-storey Chancery, accommodation for some Embassy staff, and a recreation and medical centre covers more than 50,000 square metres.
The embassy complex was built by Indonesian company Total Bangun Persada in partnership with Leighton (Asia) and continues to make a positive contribution to the local economy. During construction up to 2,500 local workers were employed on the site. The Australian Government is also undertaking upgrades to infrastructure in the local neighbourhood.
Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Paul Grigson said the new embassy is indicative of Australia’s expanded diplomatic footprint which includes a Consulate-General in Bali and another mission soon to be opened in Makassar.
“The Embassy showcases the best in Australian innovative design and cutting edge technology to make the most out of the Indonesia’s environment while minimising the impact on local water and energy sources,” Ambassador Grigson said.
The Embassy complex uses low resource technologies such as collecting and using rainwater as well as solar hot water heating systems.
Extensive landscaping was carried out during construction including the relocation of four mature Banyan trees. The relocation is the biggest of its kind ever undertaken and has been recognised by the Indonesian Guinness Book of Records, receiving a Museum Rekor Indonesia (MURI) award.
The distinctive colours chosen for the Chancery are designed to represent Australia’s wealth in minerals such as copper, zinc, brass, steel and aluminium. See images at https://www.flickr.com/photos/kedubesaustralia
“The new Australian Embassy complex is not only a tribute to Australian creative design and innovation, but it is also a tangible example of a very successful Australian-Indonesian construction partnership,” Mr Grigson said.
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