First Aussie ambassador headed to Doha

Career diplomat Axel Wabenhorst will head up Australia's new embassy in Qatar.

Career diplomat Axel Wabenhorst will be Australia's first ambassador to Qatar.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop announced the appointment on Wednesday, saying the new Australian embassy in Doha would provide greater opportunities to develop bilateral relations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade was under fire in February for spending $7.36 million or $10,000 a square metre fitting out leased office space in Doha for only 15 staff.