In December 1939, the federal government appointed
Roy Gollan as its first official trade representative in India, based in Calcutta. An assistant trade commissioner was later appointed in New Delhi, while Australian interests were also represented on the
Eastern Group Supply Council during World War II, establishing "a firm Australian presence in India in the 1940s". The Australian Government has offered diplomatic representation in India since 1943. Between 1960 and 1986, the high commissioner also had non-resident accreditation as Ambassador to
Nepal. A resident
Australian Embassy in Nepal was opened on 27 April 1984, but the first resident ambassador was not appointed until 4 May 1986. The high commission's work is assisted by multiple consulates throughout the country that have visiting and reporting responsibilities, as well as handling consular and trade matters for the high commission. On 21 May 2020, High Commissioner Barry O'Farrell presented his commission to the President of India,
Ram Nath Kovind, in India's first-ever virtual credentials ceremony. On 7 October 2022, O'Farrell presented his credentials as ambassador to the
King of Bhutan,
Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, at
Tashichho Dzong in
Thimphu. ==List of high commissioners==