Today I have appointed Mr Pablo Kang as Special Envoy to continue our efforts for progress in the investigations into the methanol poisoning deaths of Australian citizens Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones.
Since their November 2024 deaths, the Albanese Government has been clear to the Lao authorities of the need for transparency and accountability.
We have consistently conveyed our expectations that charges should reflect the seriousness of the tragedy that killed Holly, Bianca and four other foreign nationals.
I have asked Mr Kang to depart for Laos as soon as possible this week and explore all avenues to progress the case.
Mr Kang heads the Southeast Asia Regional and Mainland Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He has previously served as Ambassador to Cambodia, Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and High Commissioner to Vanuatu.
We understand the heartbreaking grief of the families of Holly and Bianca, which has been exacerbated by the delays and lack of transparency over the legal processes in Laos.
The Albanese Government will continue to press the Lao authorities on Holly and Bianca’s cases and will continue to support their families in their pursuit of justice.