In his first foreign policy speech since the election, Mr Rudd outlined his commitment to 'creative middle power diplomacy' by cementing partnerships in the Asia Pacific and with the United Nations.
Speaking in Sydney tonight, Mr Rudd says over the next three years Australia will become increasingly active in areas where he believes it can make a difference.
"Foreign policy, foreign economic policy and national security policy must increasingly be seen as the natural expression and extension of the nation's domestic policy interests," he said.
"Not as some sort of policy exotica removed from the Australian mainstream, but as part and parcel of the interests of main-street Australia."
He says Australia has a lot more to offer the international community.
"Australia can be a greater force for good in the world. The truth is that Australia's voice has been too quiet for too long," he said.
"That is why during the course of the next three years, the world will see an increasingly activist Australian international policy in areas, where we believe we may be able to make a positive difference."
Source: By Australian Broadcasting Corporation
