The detention of two Australian citizens in China has become such a priority for the Albanese government that their plight is being raised in all ministerial meetings.
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Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the safety and wellbeing of journalist Cheng Lei and Dr Yang Jun, who are both awaiting the outcomes of secret trials, remained the government's priority.
"Because the cases are such a priority for us, we make sure and the prime minister ensures they are raised in bilateral engagements with counterparts," she told a parliamentary hearing on Thursday.
This includes the cases being raised directly to Chinese President Xi Jinping by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese when they met on the sidelines of the G20 in 2022.
Senator Wong brought up the case during her trip to Beijing at end of last year and the matters were also raised by Trade Minister Don Farrell when he met his counterpart virtually this month.
The sentencing of Ms Cheng has been delayed a fourth time, now until April 19, while Dr Yang has been set for April 9.
Foreign affairs assistant secretary Ian Gerald told the hearing the delays were troubling for the government and there has been no further clarity on the charges the Australians face.
Australian Associated Press
