Australia's stint on the United Nations Security Council will begin on January 1 and will last for two years. Photo: Fairfax
Australia's stint on the United Nations Security Council will begin on January 1 and will last for two years.
Ms Gillard told reporters the seat would help Australia pursue its goals, including for peace.
‘‘Australians care about living on a planet that is a peaceful planet. That relates to the work of the Security Council,’’ she said.
Ms Gillard said Australia could not afford not to engage with the international community.
‘‘It’s never been true that you can be just your own island and a fortress. You’ve always had to engage with the world.’’
Australia’s priorities in the two years it will be a non-permanent council member would include advocating for action to protect Syrian civilians, continued engagement in East Timor, the fight against terrorism and non-proliferation, she said.
This week we ask our readers whether Australia's stint on the council was worth the time and money invested.
Last week's results:
Do you believe NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner's promise of no cuts to frontline health jobs in the region?
Yes: 8.7%
No: 91.3%