This paper examines the 230 year sweep of Australian foreign policy through the instruments of statecraft. The military instrument has been used to create favourable political and economic conditions. The legal instrument such as the Law of the Sea Convention and various arms control and disarmament treaties have complemented the military instruments. The economic instrument such as trade agreements and investment treaties have also been prominent at different times in Australia's history.Financial instruments such as international monetary agreements and foreign aid also figure prominently. Covert instruments of statecraft operate along with the other instruments, and for the same objectives. The paper highlights the elements of continuity and change in Australia's instruments of statecraft, and sheds light on previously neglected areas.